This postcard from 1981 presents a panoramic, elevated view of the historic center of Kaunas, Lithuania. The photograph encompasses a significant portion of the Old Town, situated at the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers, highlighting its architectural and historical heritage.
What is shown on the postcard
In the foreground of the postcard, the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Vytautas’ Great Church, is clearly visible, distinguished by its characteristic Gothic brickwork and stepped gables. To the right and slightly further back is the Kaunas Town Hall building, with its distinctive square tower and red tiled roof. Dominating the background is the Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of Apostles St. Peter and St. Paul, with its imposing white Baroque towers rising above the city skyline. Surrounding these central structures are numerous historic buildings of the Old Town with traditional red tiled roofs, while on the horizon, city blocks and a hilly landscape are discernible.
Historical note
Kaunas Old Town developed over centuries, beginning in the Middle Ages. Vytautas’ Great Church, founded by Grand Duke Vytautas the Great in the late 14th – early 15th century for the Franciscans, is the oldest brick church in Kaunas and one of the first Gothic structures in Lithuania. The Kaunas Town Hall, originally Gothic, was rebuilt numerous times and acquired its present Baroque and early Classicist appearance in the 18th century, serving as a symbol of city self-governance. The Cathedral Basilica of Apostles St. Peter and St. Paul, construction of which began in the 15th century, also underwent many alterations, including significant Baroque renovations in the 17th–18th centuries, becoming the city’s most important Catholic church. During the Soviet period, to which the postcard belongs, these historical buildings maintained their architectural significance, despite restrictions on religious activities and changes in their functions.
Present day
Today, Kaunas Old Town is a protected historical zone and one of Lithuania’s main tourist attractions. Vytautas’ Great Church actively functions as a parish church and also hosts cultural events. The Kaunas Town Hall, nicknamed the “White Swan,” is a popular venue for wedding ceremonies and various celebrations, as well as being part of the Kaunas City Museum. The Cathedral Basilica continues to be an active basilica, the center of Catholic life in Kaunas, attracting pilgrims and tourists with its grandeur and rich history. All these buildings undergo restoration work, maintaining their historical appearance and functionality for future generations.
Location (map)
Address: Rotušės a. 15, Kaunas, Lithuania
Coordinates: 54.897800, 23.886000
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates of Kaunas Town Hall, located in the center of the Old Town..
Questions and answers
- What are the main architectural objects visible on the postcard? The postcard shows Vytautas’ Great Church, Kaunas Town Hall, and the Kaunas Cathedral Basilica of Apostles St. Peter and St. Paul.
- To what period does the construction of Vytautas’ Great Church date? Vytautas’ Great Church was founded in the late 14th – early 15th century.
- What is the modern function of the Kaunas Town Hall? Today, the Kaunas Town Hall is used for wedding ceremonies, various celebrations, and is part of the Kaunas City Museum.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Kaunas from 1981.
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