Biržų tvirtovės arsenalas

About

Biržų tvirtovės arsenalas is one of the most atmospheric surviving buildings of the old Biržai fortress complex, originally built by the Radziwiłł family as part of their powerful bastion stronghold. The arsenal once stored weapons, gunpowder, and military equipment essential for defending the northern border of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Its thick walls and vaulted interiors were designed to withstand explosions and enemy fire, making it a rare example of early modern military engineering in Lithuania. Today the arsenal serves as an extension of the Biržai Museum, offering exhibitions that reveal the daily realities of fortress life. Inside, visitors can see collections of historical firearms, cold‑steel weapons, and tools used by soldiers and craftsmen. Displays on the Radziwiłłs highlight their political influence and their role in shaping the region. One of the most engaging sections explores the karst landscape surrounding Biržai, explaining how sinkholes and underground water systems influenced settlement and defence. Temporary exhibitions and cultural events often animate the vaulted halls, giving this historic space a lively contemporary purpose.

Biržai Lithuania

Location

The Biržai Fortress Arsenal is part of the Biržai Castle complex in the town of Biržai, northern Lithuania, close to the Latvian border. It stands on the southern shore of Lithuania’s oldest artificial lake, Lake Širvėna, and is located on J. Radvilos street, just steps from the main palace building and the long pedestrian bridge over the lake. Nearby attractions are all within easy walking distance. Directly across the lake is Astravas Manor, a beautiful 19th-century neoclassical mansion reachable via Lithuania’s longest pedestrian footbridge over a lake, a popular spot for walks and photos. The castle grounds include restored fortifications, two historic gunpowder rooms, and ruins of the gate and defensive buildings. In the wider town, visitors can explore Julius Janonis Square, the Evangelical Reformed Church, the narrow-gauge railway complex, and the Biržai Regional Park Visitor Centre. A short drive away are the Kirkilai Lakes and Observation Tower, the striking Kirkilai karst sinkholes, the Cow Cave, and Smardone Spring in Likėnai Park.