Naujasis arsenalas
The former residence of Žygimantas Augustas (Sigismund II Augustus) in the Vilnius Castles complex, which housed exhibitions of the Lithuanian National Museum; now closed for reconstruction.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Naujasis arsenalas stands within the Vilnius Castles complex, at the confluence of the Neris and the Vilnia, next to the monument to King Mindaugas. In the 16th century a private residence of Žygimantas Augustas, Grand Duke of Lithuania and King of Poland, stood here – the New Chamber by the river. The palace was built by the architect Benediktas from Sandomierz, and its façade faced a garden with three ponds.
In the Russian Empire the building passed to the artillery stores of the military district and was remodelled in strict classicism: a six-column portico was added and the windows were bricked up. Later barracks were set up in it, and during the 1863 uprising a prison for political prisoners. The building also served military purposes after the Second World War.
The Lithuanian National Museum moved into the building in the 1960s and opened it to visitors in 1968. Here the history of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the 19th century – a time full of change – and Lithuanian ethnic culture were presented. The building is now closed for reconstruction, which is being carried out in stages; the works are expected to take about 42 months. The renovated building is to have flexible exhibition halls, spaces for education and conferences, and a café with an outdoor terrace.
Highlights
- Former residence of Žygimantas Augustas – the New Chamber by the river
- Part of the Vilnius Castles complex at the confluence of the Neris and the Vilnia
- Entrance opposite the monument to King Mindaugas
- The renovated building will have exhibition halls and a café with a terrace
- Founded
- 1968
- Operated by
- Lietuvos nacionalinis muziejus
Admission & discounts
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Accessibility
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Kids & families
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Getting there & parking
By public transit
Karaliaus Mindaugo
Stop “Karaliaus Mindaugo” (trolleybuses 2, 3, 4, 17; buses 6g, 10) or stop “Arkikatedra” (buses 10, 11, 33).
By car
Paid parking
The nearest paid car park is at T. Kosciuškos g. 1a.
The entrance to the Naujasis arsenalas is opposite the monument to King Mindaugas.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
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Events & venue rental
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