Usually the town hall stands in the heart of a city and if it’s not the most beautiful building then it is most nearly so. Vilnius’ Town Hall stands in the center of the Old Town, but outwardly it’s rather modest. The simplest and least expensive project was chosen for its construction. That year, 1786, Vilnius was a province of a united Poland – Lithuania. Maybe that’s the reason why more decorative projects for the town hall were rejected.
Vilnius’ Town Hall was designed by L. Stuoka – Gucevičius. Construction was completed in 10 years but work on the interior design continued into the beginning of the 19th century.
When self-rule was abolished from 1811 until 1922, the town hall was used by various theater groups. Then a part of the interior was ravaged – columns were torn down, fireplaces with valuable bas-reliefs were walled in and destroyed, and more.
1936-1939 Vilnius’ Town Hall was restored according to the design of S. Narembski. In the resoration of the interior, there was an attempt made to reflect the style of the second half of the 18th century. After World War II, the building was an art museum. Now the Town Hall is used for receptions for foreign delegates, for the city’s gala ceremonies, exhibits and concerts.

Town Hall Square
Between Aušros Vartų, Didžiosios and Vokiečių streets.
According to legends, during the times of Algirdas, seven Franciscan monks were executed in Rotušės Aikštė. Another seven were crucified on Bald Hill (Plikojo kalno), today called the Hill of Three Crosses. Rotušės Aikštė was the place where punishments were doled out, markets and social life were centered. A pole stood in this square which was used by a henchman to flog the guilty. From Town Hall towards Didžiosios Street, in the center of the market, in earlier days there stretched two rows of brick stores and shops with a market in the center which was later turned into a square. Among other things, various amusements and attractions were held in this square: bears, travelling acrobats, comedians, performances by various troops.
These traditions remained viable until now: in this square are held the most important yearly fairs and a Christmas tree stands here. Concerts and other amusements take place and the most important of the country’s dates are celebrated here.