- TURY.CLUB
- Tourist Objects
- Lithuania
- Vilnius
- The Church of Saint Paraskeva
The Church of Saint Paraskeva (Paraskieva Pyatnitsa) is an Orthodox church located in the historic center of Vilnius, at the intersection of Didžioji and Vokiečių Streets, in the very heart of the Old Town. It is one of the oldest Christian sites in Lithuania and is linked to prominent historical figures, including Grand Duke Algirdas, Tsar Peter the Great, and Abram Hannibal — the African ancestor of Alexander Pushkin, who was baptized in this church.
The original wooden church was founded in the 14th century, and the current stone structure was built in the mid-19th century in the Russian Baroque style. The church is dedicated to Saint Paraskeva the Great Martyr, highly venerated in the Eastern Orthodox tradition. The architecture blends Russian ecclesiastical design with elements of classicism. Inside, it features a Byzantine-style iconostasis and commemorative plaques recounting its rich historical background.
The Church of Saint Paraskeva stands as a symbol of spiritual and cultural continuity between Vilnius, Eastern Orthodoxy, and the heritage of the Russian Empire. Today, it functions as an active parish where regular services, weddings, and baptisms take place. Open to both worshippers and visitors, it is part of Vilnius’ Orthodox heritage tour and represents a living monument within the city’s diverse historical landscape.
54.6809, 25.2893
