The church was originally built to serve the first Franciscan monastery established in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
The Chodkiewicz family crypt contains the sarcophagi of the founder and his family members, hidden for centuries.
The church retains a rare collection of 17th-century votive paintings and liturgical art.
The monastery complex survived numerous fires and wars, including significant damage during the Great Northern War.
The church's wooden main altar is considered one of the most valuable examples of early Baroque woodcarving in Lithuania.
The Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Kretinga is a historic Franciscan complex founded in 1610 by Jan Karol Chodkiewicz. The current stone structure, completed in 1617, represents early Baroque architecture with later Renaissance influences. It serves as the primary spiritual center for the local Franciscan monastery. The interior houses seven wooden altars carved in the late 17th century, renowned for their intricate craftsmanship. The church crypt contains the remains of the Chodkiewicz family, the noble patrons who established the monastery. A distinct feature is the 18th-century organ, which remains one of the oldest in the region. The attached monastery buildings have been restored to maintain their original architectural layout. The site remains an active place of worship with ongoing theological and community activities.
From the monastery courtyard, capturing the symmetrical facade against the backdrop of the park.
Check the monastery website for updates on liturgical events that may limit access to the central nave.
Allocate extra time to explore the adjacent monastery gardens which connect to the larger estate park.
Speak quietly inside, as this is a functioning place of worship for the local Franciscan community.
Do not attempt to enter private monastic areas marked for residents only.
The interior may be closed to tourists during private masses or religious festivals.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required; remove hats upon entering.
