Devil's Museum Kaunas
A globally unique museum housing over 3,000 devil sculptures and carvings, offering a quirky and fascinating look at global folklore and art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Devil's Museum Kaunas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A globally unique museum housing over 3,000 devil sculptures and carvings, offering a quirky and fascinating look at global folklore and art.
"A spell-binding experience of beautiful sculptures, fascinating stories and traditions."
⏳ Take Your Time
Don't rush! Reading the stories adds depth. Allow 1.5-2 hours for a full experience.
🌍 Global Folklore
Appreciate the diverse cultural takes on the devil, from mischievous sprites to intricate art.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Global Devil Collection
Thousands of devil sculptures and carvings from diverse cultures, showcasing unique artistic interpretations.
Lithuanian Folklore Focus
Discover local legends of Lithuanian devils, often depicted as mischievous sprites rather than pure evil.
Artistic Expositions
Experience contemporary art, video shows, and modern interpretations of devilish themes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Eccentricity
Time Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Take Your Time
Don't rush! Reading the stories adds depth. Allow 1.5-2 hours for a full experience.
🌍 Global Folklore
Appreciate the diverse cultural takes on the devil, from mischievous sprites to intricate art.
💡 Read the Details
The written explanations are fascinating and provide great historical context.
⬆️ Work Your Way Up
Contrary to one review, starting from the top floor and working down is recommended by some.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Take Your Time
Don't rush! Reading the stories adds depth. Allow 1.5-2 hours for a full experience.
🌍 Global Folklore
Appreciate the diverse cultural takes on the devil, from mischievous sprites to intricate art.
💡 Read the Details
The written explanations are fascinating and provide great historical context.
⬆️ Work Your Way Up
Contrary to one review, starting from the top floor and working down is recommended by some.
✨ Unexpected Art
Enjoy the modern art and video shows that offer fresh perspectives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Devil Museum for its unique, quirky, and fascinating collection of over 3,000 devil sculptures from around the world. Many highlight the spellbinding stories and historical context provided, making it an insightful and memorable stop. While some find it can be explored quickly, most recommend taking time to read the detailed explanations for a richer experience.
"A visit to Kaunas isn't complete without an hour spent at the Velnio Muziejus 😈. As the only museum of its kind globally, its very existence speaks to its authenticity and unique cultural significance.
The collection, which began with Lithuanian artist Antanas Žmuidzinavičius and has grown to over 3,000 pieces through international donations, is truly global. On its three floors, you'll see how different cultures interpret the devil—from mischievous Lithuanian folk carvings to intricate masks and sculptures from countries like India, Mexico, and Japan. This diversity provides a fascinating, multifaceted look at the mythological creature worldwide.
Beyond the static exhibits, the museum incorporates unique art expositions, featuring both contemporary fine and applied arts. These often include creative video shows and modern interpretations that bring a fresh, artistic perspective to the ancient themes. The museum is small enough that you can easily navigate the entire collection in an hour or so, making it a perfect, wonderfully bizarre, and insightful stop if you're in the area. It’s a great piece of Lithuanian eccentricity!"
Kestas Grigaliunas
"If you're into folklore, this is a wonderful place. Lithuanian devils are more like trolls or goblins than the typical judeo-Christian enemy. There's so much fun in here, with lots of stories and historical context provided. You'll learn about witches and cows and blacksmiths too."
Ahimsa Kerp
"Interesting and fascinating museum, but it's not for everyone. You can rush through it within half an hour, if you just watch the displayed scultures. However, if you take your time to read every tale and interesting detail that are written there you can learn a lot, and I hardly recommend to do it"
Tamás Mészáros
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Devil Museum (Velnio Muziejus) is located in the city center of Kaunas, making it easily accessible by foot from Laisvės Alėja (Liberty Avenue). If you're arriving by public transport, several bus routes stop nearby. It's a straightforward destination to find within the city.
Parking in the city center of Kaunas can be challenging. It's best to check for paid parking zones or garages in the vicinity. Many visitors find it easier to walk or use public transport to reach the museum.
Yes, the Devil Museum is within walking distance of Kaunas Old Town, though it's closer to the main pedestrian street, Laisvės Alėja. It's a pleasant stroll through the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official museum website or their social media pages before your visit. Generally, it's open during typical museum hours on weekdays and weekends.
Admission fees are generally considered good value for money. Specific prices can be found on their official website, but expect it to be an affordable attraction.
For most visitors, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for groups or during peak tourist seasons, it might be advisable to inquire.
The museum's theme might be more suited for older children and adults due to the subject matter. While not overtly frightening, it focuses on folklore and art. Parents should use their discretion.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 1 to 1.5 hours at the museum. If you read every description and enjoy the art expositions, you could easily spend up to 2 hours.
You'll find over 3,000 devil sculptures, carvings, and artifacts from around the world, alongside unique art expositions, video shows, and detailed explanations of folklore.
Yes, exhibit descriptions are typically provided in both Lithuanian and English, making the museum accessible to international visitors.
While primarily a collection of static exhibits, the museum incorporates creative video shows and modern artistic interpretations that add an engaging dimension to the experience.
The atmosphere is often described as fascinating, quirky, and spellbinding. It's a unique and memorable experience that offers a different perspective on mythology and art.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Devil Museum is a collection-focused attraction and typically does not have a cafe or restaurant on-site. However, it's located in the city center, so plenty of dining options are available nearby.
You'll find a wide variety of restaurants and cafes along Laisvės Alėja and in the surrounding streets, offering Lithuanian cuisine, international dishes, and quick bites.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage at the entrance or ask staff. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use might be permitted, but commercial use or flash photography is usually restricted.
The sheer variety of sculptures and the artistic displays offer many unique photo opportunities. Focus on capturing the diversity of the devil depictions from different cultures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Read the descriptions together: The stories and historical context are fascinating and can spark curiosity.
* Focus on the art: Highlight the diverse sculptures and carvings from different countries as artistic creations.
* Consider age appropriateness: Younger children might find some depictions less appealing, so gauge your child's comfort level beforehand. The museum is relatively small, making it manageable for a shorter visit if needed.
🧐 Curious Explorers & Folklore Enthusiasts
Tips for enthusiasts:
* Allocate ample time: Don't rush. The detailed explanations are crucial for understanding the nuances of each piece and its cultural significance.
* Engage with the contemporary art: The modern expositions and video shows provide a fascinating contrast and complement to the traditional artifacts.
* Look for local interpretations: Pay special attention to the Lithuanian devils, which often have a distinct, more playful character compared to their international counterparts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Genesis of the Collection
This growth highlights the universal fascination with this mythological figure, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. The museum’s three floors are meticulously organized to display this vast array of over 3,000 pieces, offering visitors a journey through diverse artistic styles and symbolic meanings. It’s a testament to how a singular artistic vision can evolve into a significant cultural institution.
Beyond Sculptures: Art and Folklore
The museum doesn't just display objects; it tells stories. The exhibits are rich with historical context and fascinating tales, delving into Lithuanian folklore where devils are often portrayed as mischievous sprites or goblins rather than purely malevolent beings. This nuanced portrayal provides a deeper understanding of local mythology, touching upon themes of witches, blacksmiths, and everyday life.
Navigating the Museum Experience
There's a minor debate among visitors about the best way to navigate the museum: some suggest starting from the top floor and working down, while others advocate for the opposite. Regardless of your chosen path, the museum is designed to be explored systematically, allowing you to absorb the diversity of the exhibits. The well-documented displays, often in both Lithuanian and English, ensure that international visitors can fully engage with the content.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit