Rokantiškės Castle, Renaissance castle ruins in Naujoji Vilnia, Lithuania
Rokantiškės Castle is the ruins of a medieval fortress standing on an elevated hill beside the Vilnia River in eastern Vilnius. The remaining stone walls show construction methods from earlier times, and the location offers views across the surrounding landscape.
The original structure dates to the 12th century and was rebuilt in Renaissance style during the 16th century before Cossacks destroyed it in 1655. These events shaped the site's transformation from a fortified stronghold to the ruins we see today.
The castle was home to the Olshanski family and later became a property of Queen Bona Sforza and the Pac noble family, reflecting its importance to Lithuanian aristocracy. The ruins reveal the role this place played as a gathering point for regional powers.
The ruins are accessible via marked paths located in the eastern part of Vilnius and can be reached on foot. The site is an open area without shelter, so be prepared for weather conditions and wear appropriate footwear.
In 1636, Deputy Chancellor Stefan Pac hosted the Polish King Wladyslaw IV Vasa at this location for an important meeting. This event reveals that the ruins were once a recognized gathering place for the most influential figures of the region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
