Museum of Culture and Identity of Lithuanian Jews

About

The Museum of Culture and Identity of Lithuanian Jews in Vilnius offers a groundbreaking exploration of Jewish heritage, creativity, and resilience. Opened in 2024 and housed in the historic “Tarbut” Jewish Gymnasium, the museum spans four floors and features 17 contemporary exhibition halls. Visitors encounter immersive displays on shtetl life, Jewish languages, religious traditions, and secular culture, including literature, music, and visual arts. Personal stories and interactive installations invite reflection on identity and belonging. A dedicated gallery honors artist Rafael Chwoles, whose works illuminate 20th-century Jewish experience in Lithuania. The museum also celebrates world-renowned Litvaks such as Nobel laureates Aaron Klug and Bernard Lown, and artists Jacques Lipchitz and Mark Antokolsky. Designed by Processoffice, the space blends architectural heritage with modern design, creating a vibrant cultural hub. It stands as a powerful tribute to Lithuania’s Jewish legacy and its enduring influence on global history.

Vilnius Lithuania

Location

The Museum of Culture and Identity of Lithuanian Jews, often referred to as the Litvak Museum, is located at Pylimo Street 4A in Vilnius. Housed in the historic former “Tarbut” Jewish Gymnasium building, this museum is the largest branch of the Vilna Gaon Museum of Jewish History. It offers a comprehensive exploration of Lithuanian Jewish history, culture, traditions, and daily life across its 17 modern exhibition halls. Visitors can engage interactively with the exhibits, which include a dedicated museum for the 20th-century Lithuanian Jewish artist Rafael Chwoles. The museum building itself reflects its legacy as a cultural and educational hub and welcomes families with thoughtfully integrated discovery tools. Nearby, the surrounding Vilnius Old Town area provides many cultural attractions, historic sites, and dining options, making the museum a key destination for immersive cultural and historical experiences.