Žvėrynas Vilnius, which means “menagerie,” has a rich history. From the 16th century to the present day, it has been a favorite place for walks among locals. The area once belonged to the honorable Radvilos family, who had a hunting reserve there.
Over time, Žvėrynas transformed into a resort-like district, especially when water resorts and baths were established in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, this green neighborhood stands out with its unique architecture and serene atmosphere.
Wooden Houses and Tranquility
Žvėrynas boasts 108 wooden houses, each contributing to its special aura. These charming wooden villas from the last century still exude the charm of bygone days. Swiss towers, Russian-style window frames, traditional Lithuanian ornaments, and stained-glass windows catch the eye of passers-by. Time seems to flow slower here, making a stroll through the district therapeutic. Don’t miss the view of the Neris River and the fresh air from the surrounding pine forests.
Hidden Gems
Near the Lubartas Bridge, you’ll find a small Kenesa (a Karaite house of prayer) with distinctive architecture—one of only two in Lithuania. The old Žvėrynas Bridge, built in 1903, connects the district to Gediminas Avenue. Just a few hundred meters away lies the bridge to Vingis Park, where forest trails await for cycling, scooters, jogging, and perhaps even spotting a roe deer.
Explore Žvėrynas and immerse yourself in its tranquil beauty!
COMPOSERS’ UNION BUILDING
Composer’s Union Building Zverynas Vilnius
The Composers’ House with a residential quarter, located in the Žvėrynas district in a quiet pine forest by the Neris River, is one of the first masterpieces of post-war modernist architecture.
The competition, announced in 1959, was won by a duo of young and ambitious architects, Vytautas Edmundas Čekanauskas and Vytautas Brėdikis. The project was continued and completed by Čekanauskas, who later designed the Lazdynai district, the Contemporary Art Centre, and the Palace of the Government of Lithuania.
The complex reflects the admiration of Vilnius architects of the time for Finnish regional modernism in harmony with national identity. Its contextual nature and harmony with nature make it a building complex that is certainly not noticeable to all passers-by.
This work, carrying the stamp of subtlety, is the first project of the still very young Čekanauskas and his first “school” as an architect. The Composers’ House is decorated with an expressive butterfly roof inspired by Le Corbusier’s work. At the same time, in the interior case, Čekanauskas used Saturnas vacuum cleaners which were turned into luminaires.
The Composers’ House complex is still fascinating not only because of its sensitivity to nature but also because of the interesting history of its creation and existence.
Address: A. Mickevičiaus g. 29