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Vilkaviškis Cathedral of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

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The Vilkaviškis Cathedral was built between 1870 and 1881 through the efforts of Father Antanas Lesnevskis and Vicar Father Jonas Siaurusaitis. It was consecrated in 1884 and became a cathedral in 1926. Severely damaged during World War II, the cathedral began its rebuilding process in 1991 after the Vilkaviškis Diocese regained its independence. The new cathedral was completed in 1998 and consecrated by Bishop Juozas Žemaitis MIC. After its reconstruction, new bells were blessed, symbolizing the importance of this religious and cultural landmark in the city.

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Religious Heritage
Vilkaviskis
Vilkaviškis Tourism and Business Information Center

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Originally constructed between 1870 and 1881, the cathedral was titled the Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary when consecrated in 1884. After the establishment of the Vilkaviškis Diocese in 1926, the church was elevated to cathedral status. During World War II, the cathedral suffered extensive damage, but after the diocese regained full independence, it was decided to rebuild it on the original foundations. The new cathedral's construction began in 1991 based on a design by J. Palaima. The work progressed rapidly and was completed in July 1998, when it was consecrated by Bishop Juozas Žemaitis MIC. The consecration ceremony was attended by Lithuanian bishops and distinguished foreign guests, including the Archbishop of Paderborn and the Auxiliary Cardinal of Cologne. After reconstruction, the cathedral's new bells were blessed, continuing to ring out today to announce important religious traditions and celebrations.

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