The castle site was originally founded by the Teutonic Order in 1252 as a wooden fortification called Memelburg.
Archaeological excavations revealed a 17th-century merchant's seal, indicating the site served as a vital trade hub beyond military defense.
The museum structure utilizes the authentic foundations of the castle's western curtain wall.
A collection of 16th-century ceramic stove tiles is on display, showcasing the daily aesthetics of the castle inhabitants.
The museum's location was historically the most fortified point of the city, protecting the mouth of the Danė River.
Part of the museum is housed in the reconstructed Prince Friedrich rampart.
The exhibition includes remnants of a silver treasure discovered during urban renewal projects in the old town.
The Castle Museum is situated within the restored subterranean casemates and curtain walls of the 16th-century Klaipėda Castle. It serves as the primary repository for the city's archaeological history, detailing the evolution of the Memelburg fortress and the surrounding town. The museum features permanent exhibitions of medieval weapons, coins, and artifacts recovered from excavations of the castle site. Visitors explore the vaulted brick corridors that once housed soldiers and supplies. The displays emphasize the strategic importance of Klaipėda as a frontier trade port in the Baltic region. The site includes a prominent tower reconstruction that offers views of the surrounding moat and the nearby Danė River. Historical models illustrate the shifting defensive architecture of the site from the Teutonic Order era through the Swedish wars. The museum is a focal point for understanding the geopolitical history of Lithuania Minor.
The viewing platform at the top of the reconstructed castle tower provides a panoramic view of the harbor and the Curonian Spit.
Bring a light jacket, as the subterranean stone tunnels maintain a consistently cool temperature even in summer.
Allocate extra time to walk the perimeter of the reconstructed moat and outer ramparts after viewing the indoor exhibits.
Check the museum's outdoor courtyard for temporary historical reenactment displays which occur during the warmer months.
Don't mistake the modern cruise ship terminal building nearby for the museum entrance; follow the signs for the castle ruins.
Closed on Mondays and major public holidays.
