The building was constructed in the mid-19th century as a luxury private residence for the governor of the Kaunas Governorate before becoming the presidential seat.
Between 1940 and 1991, the palace served various roles under Soviet occupation, including as a Pioneer Palace and a Teachers' House.
The garden hosts the 'Presidential Path,' a commemorative layout featuring busts of the interwar leaders.
It is the only building in Lithuania that served as a presidential palace during the interwar independence period.
The museum interior features restored office spaces that replicate the working conditions of the 1920s and 1930s.
The Historical Presidential Palace in Kaunas served as the official seat of the President of the Republic of Lithuania during the interwar period from 1919 to 1940. It is a distinct example of Neo-Renaissance architecture located at the end of the city's central pedestrian thoroughfare. The museum maintains exhibits detailing the evolution of Lithuanian statehood and the daily lives of the country's first presidents. Its grounds feature a sculpture garden displaying statues of the three presidents who resided there: Antanas Smetona, Aleksandras Stulginskis, and Kazys Grinius. The building also hosts temporary historical exhibitions and educational programs regarding regional political history. It stands as one of the few buildings in Kaunas to have retained its original function and interior ambiance from the early 20th century.
The central entrance steps facing the sculpture garden.
Prioritize visiting the garden first if the weather is clear, as it offers the best context for the outdoor sculptures.
Check the official website for rotating exhibition themes, as these change periodically.
Take time to read the detailed placards in the restored study rooms to understand the specific political context of the interwar era.
Do not mistake this for the modern government buildings; this is strictly a historical site focused on the 1919-1940 period.
Closed on Mondays and major public holidays.
