The State Small Theatre of Vilnius

Commissioned by the merchant Isaac Smaženevich in 1900, the four-story building – now the State Small Theatre of Vilnius* – was one of the largest in Vilnius at that time.

This pure example of historicism was built when Lithuania was part of the Russian Empire, withstanding both world wars, the constant change of different governments in Vilnius, and finally witnessing Lithuania’s independence. The famous “Bristol” hotel and one of the most famous cafes in Vilnius, “Žaliasis Štralis”, as well as the “Le Grand” theater, operated in the building.

Even some of the most famous Lithuanian artists, such as Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis and the writer Kristina Sabaliauskaitė, have connections to this building.

Behind the walls of the theater lies not only an impressively varied history but also the luxury characteristic of 20th-century interiors. The unique and very special vaulted ceiling of the theater hall, created from glass blocks, and the winter garden are just a small part of the most valuable architectural details and relics of the past of this building.

This building, which has been reconstructed several times and has changed its function, reminds us of many important events that have taken place in Vilnius since its inception.