Monument to Grand Duke Gediminas
An imposing monument to Grand Duke Gediminas, founder of Vilnius, in the heart of Cathedral Square — a striking photo subject and a natural city-centre meeting point.
- ✓Honours Grand Duke Gediminas, the legendary founder of Vilnius, who ruled from 1316 to 1341.
- ✓Stands in the heart of Cathedral Square, beside the Cathedral and the Palace of the Grand Dukes.
- ✓An impressive, popular spot for photos, especially at sunset.
- ✓An easy-to-spot landmark that doubles as a convenient meeting point in the centre.
Monument to Grand Duke Gediminas
The Monument to Grand Duke Gediminas is one of the most prominent landmarks in Cathedral Square, the symbolic heart of Vilnius. It pays tribute to Gediminas, the grand duke who ruled from 1316 to 1341 and is traditionally credited as the founder of the city — the legend of his dream of an iron wolf is woven into Vilnius's origin story. Under his rule the Grand Duchy of Lithuania expanded dramatically, and he remains a defining figure of Lithuanian statehood.
The bronze monument, created by sculptor Vytautas Kašuba and unveiled in 1996, shows the duke standing beside his horse, one hand raised as if guiding the nation and a sword at his side. Its grand scale and central position make it a popular photo subject, particularly when the light softens at sunset, with Vilnius Cathedral and the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania as a backdrop.
Opinions on the modern artistic style vary, but the monument's role in city life is undisputed: it's an obvious, easy-to-find meeting point in a lively square that regularly hosts concerts, ceremonies and seasonal events. Visit it together with the Cathedral, the Bell Tower and the nearby "Miracle" tile to take in the square in one go.
Where it is
Vilnius Cathedral & Cathedral Square — Lithuania's main Catholic cathedral with its freestanding belfry anchors the broad Cathedral Square at the foot of Castle Hill.
Map pins
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors · Tiles © OpenFreeMap
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