Lithuania’s ‘Vatican City’ & Counts Mansion Visit

by coach & on foot

This experience offers you the opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful and oldest cities in Lithuania, known as the ‘Vatican City’ of Kretinga. The city is home to several monasteries and churches, a former manor house and a former water mill. It was also the first in the country to receive electricity and telephone connections.

After a scenic drive of approximately 50 minutes, you will reach Kretinga, where people from all over Lithuania come to seek spiritual guidance and peace. During your visit, you will hear about the Franciscan monastery and visit the neighbouring Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary whilst your guide talks you through some of the history and tells you stories about the power of faith.

Returning to your coach, your journey will continue to the former residence and manor house of the nobleman Tiskevicius. Your guide will first show you the former water mill from the 16th century before you cross over the street to the orangery of the manor house. This ensemble, with the orangery in the middle, is truly impressive: a remarkable combination of baroque-style elements with a semicircular greenhouse of modern iron-and-glass construction. Here you will learn all about the history of the manor and its culture.

Finally, you will rejoin your coach for the return journey to Klaipeda. On arrival, you will follow your guide on an approximately 45-minute walk through the old town before returning to the ship.