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The Old Zapyškis St. John the Baptist Church

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The Old Zapyškis St. John the Baptist Church is one of the oldest in Lithuania, known as the "mother of churches." Built in the 14th century in the Gothic style and first mentioned in 1562, the church has withstood numerous historical challenges, yet remains a unique cultural heritage site. The church was constructed by local workers under the guidance of a skilled Gothic master. Its interior featured frescoes and an organ with a moving sculpture of King David. In 1936, the church was converted into a storage facility. Since 1996, it has hosted cultural events and concerts. The church is best accessed by car, although visitors must cross a meadow to reach it.

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Religious Heritage

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The Old Zapyškis St. John the Baptist Church is one of the oldest in Lithuania and a unique example of Gothic architecture, standing on the banks of the Nemunas River. This small church, whose history dates back to the 14th century, is often referred to as the "mother of churches." First mentioned in 1562, it has endured many historical trials, including damage from wars, fires, floods, and several repairs. Despite these challenges, the church has survived and become an important cultural and religious heritage site in Lithuania. Since the early 20th century, services have ceased, and in 1936, the church was repurposed as a storage facility for church supplies. Legends suggest that the church’s builder was Povilas Sapiega, who settled in the Zapyškis manor in the mid-16th century. The church was constructed following Gothic principles, with local workers

building the walls under the guidance of a master skilled in Gothic architecture. The church’s interior was adorned with frescoes, likely depicting Kaunas, and an organ considered a masterpiece, featuring a moving sculpture of King David. It is also said that a painting of the Virgin Mary was brought along the Nemunas River, accompanied by a mounted elk’s head as a tribute. Unfortunately, the organ and other decorations were lost during World War I when German soldiers removed them. Since 1996, the church has hosted cultural events and concerts as part of the Pažaislis Music Festival. The church has become an important cultural and historical site, attracting not only the faithful but also art and culture lovers. To visit this unique heritage site, it is most convenient to arrive by car, though visitors will need to cross a meadow to reach the church.

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