- Lithuania’s most important sanctuary, a witness of the nation’s Baptism.
- The Chapel of St Casimir contains the earthly remains of Lithuania’s patron saint.
- The Sapiega Madonna painting, renowned for graces, attracts many pilgrims.
- The vaults – the burial place of many rulers – contain Lithuania’s oldest fresco.
- Pope John Paul II began his apostolic visit to Lithuania here in 1993.
The Cathedral Basilica of Sts Stanislaus and Vladislaus is the main symbol and spiritual centre of the Lithuanian capital as well as a monument to the Baptism of Lithuania. The basilica, built in the very heart of the city at the base of the castle hill, has witnessed many important historical events. Here Lithuanian rulers were crowned, here nobles and bishops were buried. Even today, Holy Mass celebrated in Vilnius Cathedral marks the high point of many national and religious feasts and commemorations. The sanctuary’s rich spiritual and cultural treasures are a magnet for all visitors to the city, but it is especially cherished by Catholics as the place where the relics of St Casimir, Lithuania’s patron saint, are venerated. On September 4, 1993, Pope John Paul II prayed here by the remains of St Casimir and held a meeting in the cathedral with priests, religious and seminarians.
