The building located at 12 Pilies Street is a distinguished architectural monument in the historic center of Vilnius, situated on one of the city’s oldest and most prominent streets, leading to Cathedral Square and the palace complex. The structure represents an architectural ensemble shaped over several centuries, incorporating elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
References to buildings on this site date back to the 15th century. The current appearance of the building was formed in the 17th–18th centuries, with the façade reconstructed to include characteristic Baroque features such as stucco decorations, pediments, arched windows, and niches. The building includes a courtyard and basement spaces, typical of residential and institutional architecture in Old Vilnius. Historically, it housed noble residences, merchant establishments, and civic institutions.
Today, 12 Pilies Street is protected as a cultural heritage site. It is used for administrative, cultural, and educational purposes. Its location and architectural value make it a key part of the city’s urban fabric and a regular stop on both tourist and academic tours. The building stands as a living testament to Vilnius’ layered history and architectural continuity across the ages.