Church of Sts Peter and Paul

2,000 sculptures under one roof

From the outside, the Church of Sts Peter and Paul (Šv. apaštalų Petro ir Povilo bažnyčia) in the Antakalnis district looks almost plain. Step inside and it becomes one of the most astonishing spaces in Vilnius: an all-white interior in which more than 2,000 intricate stucco figures and reliefs cover nearly every surface — saints, biblical scenes, soldiers, mythological creatures and everyday life rendered in dazzling detail. It is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Lithuanian Baroque and one of the most richly stucco-decorated church interiors in northern Europe.

The church was founded by Grand Hetman Mykolas Kazimieras Pacas and built between 1668 and 1676; the celebrated stucco work was carried out from 1677 to 1684 by the Italian masters Giovanni Pietro Perti and Giovanni Maria Galli. Look up for the famous chandelier in the shape of a boat, and head downstairs to the crypt, which houses a small museum. The detail rewards a slow visit, and the journey out from the Old Town is well worth it.

• Founded by Mykolas Kazimieras Pacas; built 1668–1676
• Stucco decoration by Perti and Galli, 1677–1684
• Boat-shaped crystal chandelier in the nave
• Crypt with a small museum below the church

Good to know

The church is at Antakalnio g. 1, just outside the Old Town in the Antakalnis neighbourhood — about a 30-minute walk from Cathedral Square or a short ride on city transport. Entry is free for all visitors as an active Roman Catholic parish; daily Mass is held in Lithuanian and Polish. Be mindful of services, keep a respectful silence while admiring the artistry, and check opening hours locally before you go as they can change.