Panemunės Castle

Pilis I, Lithuania, Lithuania

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Panemunė Castle is one of Lithuania’s most beautiful historic castles, located on a hill overlooking the Nemunas River near Pilis I.

The site began as a medieval fortress in the early 14th century, but the present castle was mainly built between 1604 and 1610 as a grand Renaissance residence for the nobleman and merchant János Eperjes. Over the centuries, the castle evolved from a defensive stronghold into an elegant noble estate, gaining Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical features.

Later owners enhanced the property with landscaped parks, ponds, and gardens, making it a prestigious residence rather than a military fortress. Today, Panemunė Castle is a restored cultural landmark managed by the Vilnius Academy of Arts. It houses a museum, exhibition spaces, cultural events, and visitor facilities, allowing guests to explore both its rich history and scenic surroundings.