Remarks by President Dalia Grybauskaitė at the opening of the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania

Marking Statehood Day, the National Museum – Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, together with its partners, invites everyone to commemorate this day meaningfully and has prepared a festive programme for visitors. In addition to already traditional educational workshops and guided tours, visitors will be able to enjoy the modern technology-based “Virtual Journey Through Time” and “Virtual Reconstruction of Gediminas’ Tower.” Actor Rimantas Bagdzevičius will read poems by Motiejus Kazimieras Sarbievijus and other poets of the Baroque era of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, a concert will take place, and at 21:00 we will all sing the Lithuania's Anthem together in the Grand Courtyard of the Palace.

The museum’s latest success story – a restored tapestry believed to have been created in the mid-18th century at the Royal Manufacture of Aubusson in France – The Abduction of the Sabine Women – will be presented to the public as part of the permanent exhibition. This beautiful work has undergone a lengthy restoration process, and its restoration story has become an important part of the exhibit. Visitors to the Palace of the Grand Dukes Museum are now given the opportunity to closely explore the tapestry’s history, its restoration stages, and the intricacies of the restorer’s profession.

On the night of June 13, the Palace of the Grand Dukes will open its doors not only to history, but to sound. Classical harmonies, jazz, contemporary explorations and experimental music will fill the majestic halls and courtyard for a night of unforgettable musical encounters. Museum admission is free from 18:00 to 24:00 (Last visitors admitted until 23:00)