Chapels

Overview

Deep within the majestic Vilnius Cathedral, a spiritual and historical treasure in Lithuania's capital, lie several chapels, each holding centuries of stories and sacred art. Among these, the Chapel of Saint Casimir stands out as a paramount example of early Baroque artistry and a profound pilgrimage site. The cathedral itself, a remarkable fusion of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical styles, houses a total of eleven chapels, offering visitors a contemplative journey through Lithuania's rich past and enduring faith. These sacred spaces serve not just as architectural marvels, but as quiet testaments to the nation's spiritual heart, preserving relics, magnificent paintings, and the resting places of historical figures.

History & Cultural Background

The construction of the Chapel of Saint Casimir, a centerpiece of the Vilnius Cathedral, commenced between 1623 and 1636, following the canonization of Prince Casimir Jagiellon. King Sigismund III Vasa, a descendant of the Jagiellonian dynasty, commissioned Italian architects and sculptors to create this Baroque masterpiece, reflecting the grandeur and piety of the era. Tragically, Vilnius suffered extensive devastation during the Deluge (1655–1661), and the chapel, along with the cathedral, was a target. Its meticulous reconstruction and redecoration took place after 1680, with significant contributions from artists like Pietro Perti and Michelangelo Palloni after 1692, who infused it with renewed splendor.

Another significant space is the Royal Chapel, also known as the Valavičiai or Goštautas Chapel. It was originally founded in the late 15th century by Casimir Jagiellon and dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Andrew, and St. Stanislaus. This chapel later underwent significant rebuilding and decoration in the 16th and 17th centuries under the patronage of Bishop Eustachius Valavičius. Beneath the cathedral, an extensive network of crypts serves as the final resting place for many distinguished noblemen, rulers, and bishops of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Among those interred here are figures like Alexander Jagiellon, Queen Barbora Radvilaitė, Queen Elžbieta Habsburgaitė, and the heart of Vladislovas IV Vasa, connecting visitors directly to the royal history of the nation.

What Makes It Special

The Chapel of Saint Casimir is celebrated as one of Lithuania's finest examples of early Baroque art. Its most revered feature is the silver sarcophagus containing the relics of Saint Casimir, Lithuania's patron saint. The chapel's interior is a visual feast, adorned with faux marble, intricate stucco decorations, and eight silver-plated wooden statues believed to represent rulers of the Jagiellonian dynasty. Murals by the Florentine artist Michelangelo Palloni, completed during the late 17th-century restoration, vividly depict miracles that occurred after St. Casimir's death, further emphasizing his sanctity.

The Goštautas Chapel draws particular attention for housing the revered painting of the Sapiega Madonna, also known as 'Our Lady of St Michael.' This iconic image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, famous for its miraculous powers since the 16th century, was notably crowned by the Pope in 1750, a rare honor bestowed due to the numerous graces attributed to it. Furthermore, this chapel is home to Lithuania's oldest reliquary, the 'Hand of St Stanislaus,' a 'speaking' reliquary whose form reveals the relic within. The dome of the Goštautas Chapel is beautifully decorated with depictions of evangelists and key events in the life of the Virgin Mary, adding another layer of artistic and theological significance. Beyond these two prominent chapels, the cathedral's crypts conceal some of the oldest surviving frescoes in Lithuania, dating back to the 14th century, offering a glimpse into early Lithuanian Christian art.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Perhaps the most intriguing artistic detail within the Chapel of Saint Casimir is the 'Three-Handed St. Casimir' painting. Legend has it that the artist, attempting to alter the composition, could not hide the first right hand, as it miraculously reappeared, resulting in the saint being depicted with three hands, each holding a lily. This unusual depiction is said to symbolize his extraordinary generosity and purity, virtues for which Prince Casimir was renowned. He died young, at just 25 years old, likely from tuberculosis, and was known for his profound piety, even declining an arranged marriage despite its political advantages.

A fascinating historical find occurred in 1985 when the Cathedral's treasury was discovered. It contained masterpieces of Lithuanian goldsmithery, hastily hidden in a niche between the Goštautas and Exiles Chapels in 1939, at the outbreak of World War II. This collection provides a tangible link to the wealth and artistic skill of past eras. Visitors might also notice that the cathedral's distinct bell tower, separated from the main building, stands on the foundations of Vilnius' ancient city walls, a testament to the city's layered history and defensive past.

Visitor Perspective

For any traveler exploring Vilnius Cathedral, the chapels offer an intimate and profound experience. The Chapel of Saint Casimir is not merely an artistic highlight but a deeply spiritual place that continues to attract pilgrims and tourists seeking to connect with Lithuania's patron saint. Stepping into these sacred spaces, visitors are greeted by a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere, prompting reflection on centuries of faith and history. Guided tours are often available for the cathedral's crypts, providing a unique opportunity to descend into the subterranean resting places of Lithuania's historical figures, including royalty and prominent church leaders. Exploring these chapels and crypts provides a vital glimpse into the enduring role of the Vilnius Cathedral as the spiritual and historical heart of Lithuania.