Bell Tower Birthday
Having become one of Vilnius’s symbols since opening its doors seven years ago, the Vilnius Cathedral Bell Tower is inviting visitors to join its birthday celebrations on 14–15th May! Vilnius citizens and guests are invited to build their own bell towers from all kinds of materials and share memories, stories and photos relating to this historic site. The best stories and creations will be rewarded and the works will be put on display in the belfry itself. Furthermore, presents and surprises will be awaiting all visitors during the two-day celebration!
The Bell Tower is not a traditional museum, and its main exhibit is the tower itself, which has masonry dating back as far as the 13th century. After climbing up a fascinating wooden structure, the visitors will discover the oldest clock mechanism in the city, which still works and keeps the time, as well as a panoramic view of the city at a height of 45 metres. In 2002, six new bells, which were a gift to Vilnius Cathedral and the city itself from the Archdiocese of Cologne, were consecrated in Cathedral Square and lifted into the tower. Four of them toll every day at 5 o’clock. It is a memorable, captivating moment and an opportunity to appreciate the great bells up-close as you feel them ringing with your whole body. All of the largest bells in the tower can be heard during Mass, processions and important religious events.
Also available at the belfry until 1st July is an installation dedicated to the Great Flood of Vilnius from 90 years ago. People interested in learning more about this natural disaster can book a themed tour called ‘Deluge. One Week in April in Vilnius’. If you visit the cathedral crypts and Bell Tower with a guide, you will be surprised by the lasting effects the flood had on the city and the spectacular royal discoveries that it led to.
On 14–15th May, Bell Tower visitors will have the opportunity to not only see the display but also look for presents hidden in the tower’s numerous nooks and crannies.
In May to September, the Bell Tower is open to visitors on work days and Saturdays from 10 am to 7 pm. A single ticket is 5 Euros, a discounted ticket is 3 Euros, and a 45-minute guided tour for one household or two persons costs 25 Euros.
The Bell Tower of Vilnius Cathedral will be eagerly awaiting your memories and creations until 15th May at the email address varpine@bpmuziejus.lt. For more information call 8-600-12080.
.png){kind=small}
