Devils' Museum

If you're looking for a truly unusual place, the Devils' Museum (Velnių muziejus) in the city of Kaunas is a must-see. This unique cultural institution, part of the M. K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art, is recognized as one of the most original museums in the world. Here, under one roof, you'll find an incredible collection of mythical creatures depicted in wood, ceramics, stone, and even paper.

Devils' Museum. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The heart of the exhibition is based on the private collection of Lithuanian artist Antanas Žmuidzinavičius. This treasure trove of folklore features more than 3,000 exhibits from all corners of the globe. Lithuania is rightfully proud of this collection, where devils are presented not just as sinister characters, but as folk tale heroes, embodiments of human vices, or simply amusing souvenirs.

The museum occupies a modern three-story building where each level reveals a new facet of the "devilish" theme. You can see everything from traditional Lithuanian masks to exquisite silk paintings from Asia. Even the building's interior is steeped in the theme—from silhouettes on the windows to quirky door signs—creating a total immersion into the world of legends and myths.

To plan your visit and clarify exhibition details, you can use the museum's official contact information. The staff is always ready to assist with information about group tours or special events.

There’s certainly no time to get bored in this museum, as each of the three floors offers its own unique discoveries. On the first floor, you'll find the original collection of Antanas Žmuidzinavičius. Be sure to look for the microscopic devil, which can only be seen through a special magnifying glass—it's a true masterpiece of miniature art.

Moving to the second floor, pay attention to the massive wooden devil—legend has it that it was donated to the museum specifically to take away all the misfortunes of its visitors. Here, you'll also find fascinating thematic compositions where mythical characters stand alongside witches or become allegories for human weaknesses, such as greed or tobacco addiction. You'll see surprising everyday items: pipes, nutcrackers, and walking sticks, all crafted in the shape of devils.

The third floor is dedicated to the international collection. It brings together "envoys" from dozens of countries, including exotic masks from Mexico and Cuba. Visitors are often encouraged not just to look, but to keep the tradition alive—many tourists leave their own souvenirs here so the collection continues to grow and evolve. This place is perfect for those who appreciate authentic folk art and aren't afraid to look folklore characters in the eye.

Finding the Devils' Museum is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city at V. Putvinskio g. 64. If you are already walking through the center, look for the War Museum—the "devilish" collection is located right behind it. From the historic Old Town, the entrance is a leisurely 15–20 minute walk away.

For those who prefer public transport, many city buses and trolleybuses stop nearby. If you are arriving from the airport, it is most convenient to take a taxi (the ride takes about 20–30 minutes) or take a direct bus to the center and then walk a short distance.

If your journey to Kaunas starts from Vilnius, you can take a comfortable train or an intercity bus. The trip takes about an hour and a half, after which city transport or a short taxi ride will take you straight to the doors of this unusual building.

The history of this mystical place began in 1906, when the famous Lithuanian artist and public figure Antanas Žmuidzinavičius received his first wooden devil figurine as a gift. The donor, a local priest, jokingly asked the artist to collect images of the wily one for the rest of his life. Žmuidzinavičius planned to collect 169 pieces (exactly 13 dozen), but by the end of his life, his collection already numbered 260 unique items.

After the master's death in 1966, his private collection was handed over to the state, and a museum was opened in his home. Over time, the collection became so popular and extensive that in 1982, a modern three-story building was constructed according to the design of architect Algirdas Mažeika. This expansion allowed for the proper display of thousands of new exhibits sent from all over the world.

Interestingly, the Devils' Museum continues to grow today solely through the initiative of its visitors. Since the 1970s, tourists from various countries—from Cuba to Japan—have been bringing and sending new characters as gifts to the museum. Today, it houses more than 3,000 exhibits, each with its own unique history and national character.

To explore all three floors of the exhibition without rushing and to examine the details of the most unusual figurines, most visitors need 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to get acquainted with the collection and take a look at the memorial apartment of artist Antanas Žmuidzinavičius.

If you're interested in ethnography or enjoy studying the small details of decorative and applied arts, your visit might take longer. The collection is very dense, and many exhibits require careful study, especially the tiny miniatures that are best viewed through a magnifying glass.

The museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Saturday, with extended hours on Thursdays, which is very convenient for evening walks around the city. Please note the closing days to ensure your visit goes according to plan.

Current opening hours:

• Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 11:00 – 17:00
• Thursday: 11:00 – 19:00
• Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
• Monday and Sunday: Closed

Exploring the surroundings after visiting the museum will allow you to fully experience the city's atmosphere and see its multifaceted nature. Nearby, you'll find both majestic historical monuments and cozy spots for a stroll.