Church of Ascension in Vilnius

Vilnius, Lithuania

Open to visitors

The interior is normally open, possibly ticketed.

Strollie cannot guarantee access — always check before you travel.

Wheelchair access: Partly accessible

From OpenStreetMap — confirm before travelling

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The Church of the Ascension stands in Vilnius's Old Town as a Roman Catholic structure built of brick in the Baroque style. Construction began in 1695 on the Mount of Salvation, commissioned by missionary priests from France and sponsored by the military figure Teofil Plater and his wife. Progress proved arduous: a 1706 fire destroyed the roof, the Swedish invasion of 1708 halted work entirely, and financial constraints delayed completion until 1730. The Grand Marshal of Lithuania, Antoni Nowosielski, funded crucial elements including the towers and façade in 1722. Though the original architect remains unknown—likely several builders oversaw the protracted construction—Johann Christoph Glaubitz elevated the towers between 1750–1754 in Vilnian Baroque style, and the porch was added in 1755–1756. The façade displays elaborate rococo moldings and features eighteenth-century wooden sculptures of David and Moses in niches; the towers' upper levels are adorned with corner pilasters bearing coins and vases. The modest interior reflects the values of the Congregation of the Mission, which also maintained a monastery and hospital adjacent to the church.