Vilniaus Šv. Onos bažnyčia

St Anne's Church in Vilnius is one of the most impressive and alluring monuments of Gothic architecture in Lithuania, one that has captivated not only local residents but also the powerful of the world over the centuries. Situated in the Old Town of Vilnius, on the left bank of the Vilnia, the church shines with its unique forms and history.

Construction of the church began as early as 1495 and was completed around 1500–1501. It was built in Flamboyant Gothic, a style distinguished by dynamic and intricate architectural solutions. Legend has it that Napoleon Bonaparte, visiting Vilnius, was so taken with St Anne's Church that he said if it were possible he would take it in the palm of his hand and carry it off to Paris.

The church's history is exceptionally rich and eventful. The first St Anne's church is mentioned as early as 1390 and stood on the slope of Gediminas' Hill. However, the present church was built later, beginning in 1495, next to the Bernardine monastery. Its construction was initiated by the Confraternity of St Martin, made up of German and other foreign Catholics. Over time the church suffered various misfortunes — it burned and was ravaged during wars — but it was always rebuilt and maintained.

In the early 17th century the church suffered from fires, and in 1655, during the war with Moscow, it was badly damaged. Several stages of rebuilding followed, carried out by noted architects such as Mykolas Angelas Šulcas and Johann Christoph Glaubitz. In the 19th century the church was rebuilt and renovated again after it had been turned into a warehouse during Napoleon's campaign.

The church's architecture is especially striking. Although it is not large — just 19 metres long and 8.7 metres wide — its facade and interior are ornate and richly detailed. More than 30 different profiles of brick were used in its construction, giving the building an effect of lightness and grace. The facades of St Anne's Church impress with their proportions, symmetrical composition and vertical elements. They were designed according to the geometric laws typical of Gothic architecture, and the main facade is made up of numerous harmoniously linked elements, such as entrance arches and pointed-arch windows.

Today St Anne's Church is not only a centre of religious life but also an important cultural site. Together with the Bernardine church it forms one of the most significant Gothic ensembles in Lithuania, which was entered onto the Register of Cultural Property of the Republic of Lithuania in 1992.

It is precisely this beauty and history that make it one of the most important jewels of Vilnius Old Town, well worth a visit for anyone who wishes to feel the spirit of ancient architecture and learn more about Lithuania's cultural heritage.