It is the only Gothic cathedral constructed of brick in Lithuania.
The cathedral contains the tomb of Maironis, Lithuania's most celebrated national poet.
The interior layout is a basilica-style plan with three naves of equal height.
The building survived multiple fires and military conflicts since its initial foundation in the early 1400s.
It holds the status of a minor basilica, a title granted by the Vatican in 1921.
The Cathedral-Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul is the largest Catholic church in Lithuania and the primary cathedral of the Kaunas Archdiocese. Constructed primarily in the Gothic style starting in the 15th century, it features a distinct interior redesigned in the Baroque style during the 17th and 18th centuries. It stands as the only brick Gothic cathedral in Lithuania. The structure served as a parish church for over three centuries before receiving the status of a cathedral in 1895. In 1921, Pope Benedict XV elevated the church to the rank of a basilica. The interior houses nine altars, including a significant 17th-century high altar. The site also serves as the final resting place for Maironis, a prominent Lithuanian romantic poet, whose remains are interred in a mausoleum on the cathedral's exterior. It is located at the eastern end of Kaunas Old Town.
From the Vilniaus Street entrance, capturing the full scale of the facade against the sky.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist crowds and scheduled services.
Walk around the perimeter to view the poet Maironis's outdoor mausoleum.
Respect ongoing religious services by remaining quiet and keeping to the rear of the pews.
Avoid entering during mass or other private liturgical events, as visitors are expected to observe silence and not walk through the nave.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Refrain from taking photographs during active religious services.
