Gediminas' Tower

Vilnius, Lithuania

Gediminas' Tower is the only remaining part of the Upper Castle in Vilnius. The first fortifications were built of wood by Duke of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Gediminas. Later the first brick castle was completed in 1409 by Grand Duke Vytautas. Some remnants of the old castle have been restored, guided by archeological research.

It is possible to climb to the top of the hill on foot or by taking a funicular. The tower houses an exposition of archeologic findings from the hill and the surrounding areas. It is also an excellent vantage point, from where the panorama of Vilnius' Old Town can be admired.

Gediminas' Tower is an important state and historic symbol of the city of Vilnius and of Lithuania itself. It is depicted on the national currency, the litas, and is mentioned in numerous Lithuanian patriotic poems and folk songs. The Flag of Lithuania was re-hoisted atop the tower on October 7, 1988, during the independence movement that was finalized by the Act of the Re-Establishment of the State of Lithuania on March 11, 1990. A reconstruction of the Royal Palace of Lithuania was completed in 2009, and is located near the base of the hill upon which Gediminas' Tower stands.

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Details

Founded: c. 1409
Category: Castles and fortifications in Lithuania

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

El Barto (7 months ago)
Nice place with a view on Vilnius. You can go up by foot or by electric gondola, which is 2 euros up and down or just 1 euro in one way. Also if you want to go to the top of the castle it is additinal 8 euros. It’s nice place and it’s worh to go if you are in Vilnius.
Legends l (8 months ago)
Interesting looking building. I would recommend paying to visit the tower. There is a lot of modern history here covering the struggles and efforts made by Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia in their cause to become autonomous. Lots of pictures and information available. The view from the tower overlooking the centre is nice although in my view you can get an even better view from The Three Crosses Monument. I would definitely put the castle in my top list of things to do in Vilnius.
DMINATOR (8 months ago)
Small, but great views around it. You don't need to pay anything to get to the hill itself, however if you want to see the tower it's an extra charge. The tower itself has some historical material worth exploring. There are actually two stairs, and one leads to the terrace on the top. Overall it may be quite small. Also no restrooms in the building as far as I could tell.
Mark M. (9 months ago)
I had the privilege of getting to the top of this tower and seeing the entire old town in Vilnius, and this is a beautiful historic castle tower that was constructed in the 1400s. It felt like I was traveling back in time and the staff here were friendly and informative when asked them questions. Anyone traveling to Vilnius for the first time must come and check this place out. 5 Stars!!
subhranil kar (10 months ago)
One of the must visit places in Vilnius. I am not sure if this is the highest point in the city or not, but from here the panoramic view of the entire Vilnius city is some which no one should miss. Two options to reach the top, via Vertical lift or by walk. We choose to climb up by walk, and the path is well demarcated and maintained. No tickets apart from the tower, it was closed when we visited.
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