Charms of Franciscan Kretinga

Embark on a drive north from Klaipeda to the town of Kretinga.Here, you’ll visit the Church of the Annunciation dating from the 17th century. In the grounds surrounding the church lie the Stations of the Cross and inside you may wish to visit the underground crypt. The adjoining Franciscan Monastery combines renaissance and baroque elements. The Franciscan friars, who lived in the monastery, made a great contribution to education in Lithuania. They opened the first school and later published books and newspapers. The Monastery was closed by the Tsarist government, and again in Soviet times, but in 1992, after independence, the Franciscans returned. It is likely that one of the Brothers will be your guide.

Continuing by coach through the centre of Kretinga, you’ll reach Count Tiskevicius’ 19th century estate. One part of the estate houses a museum displaying spiritual and cultural treasures of Kretinga. The museum holds a collection of Lithuanian wooden art and countless pieces of equipment used in authentic Lithuanian living. All of this will allow you to discover the traditions and daily life of local people.

You’ll also visit a family-owned café in the former Kretinga Water Mill, where you will enjoy tea or coffee, cake and famous hand-made Count's chocolate.