The Žmuidzinavičius Museum, commonly known as the Devils' Museum, is a unique cultural institution located in Kaunas, Lithuania. It houses a vast collection of over 3,000 devil-themed sculptures, carvings, and masks gathered from around the world. The collection originated from the private acquisitions of the Lithuanian painter Antanas Žmuidzinavičius, who began collecting these items during his lifetime.
Following the artist's death in 1966, the collection was opened to the public in his former home. The museum has since expanded significantly through donations from visitors and collectors, evolving into a repository of international folklore and artistic interpretations of mythological figures. It remains one of the most distinct and frequently visited museums in Lithuania.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Wood, Ceramic, Metal, Stone
- Civilization
- Lithuanian
- Accessibility
- Ground floor accessible
- Date(s)
- 1966
- Condition
- Well-maintained, active museum
- Original Function
- Private residence and art studio
- Key Figures
- Antanas Žmuidzinavičius
Origins of the Collection
Early 20th CenturyThe collection began as a personal hobby of the painter Antanas Žmuidzinavičius. Over several decades, he acquired various devil-themed artifacts, often receiving them as gifts from friends and fellow artists.
Establishment of the Museum
1966After the death of Žmuidzinavičius, his home was converted into a memorial museum to house his extensive collection, which at the time numbered 260 items.
Expansion and Modernization
1982 - PresentDue to the rapid growth of the collection through public donations, a new annex was constructed in 1982 to accommodate the thousands of new pieces. The museum continues to curate exhibitions exploring the role of the devil in global folklore.
Cultural Significance
The museum holds a unique place in Lithuanian culture, reflecting the country's rich tradition of woodcarving and folk mythology. While the devil is often viewed as a malevolent figure in Christian theology, the collection highlights the playful, mischievous, and humanized depictions found in folk art, serving as a bridge between traditional beliefs and modern artistic expression.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
There is ongoing discussion among ethnographers regarding the classification of the collection, specifically whether it should be viewed primarily as a religious artifact repository or as a sociological study of how different cultures anthropomorphize the concept of evil.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open Tuesday through Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. Photography is permitted for personal use.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings are generally quieter. The museum is a popular destination during the autumn and winter months when indoor cultural activities are preferred.
Photography
Personal photography is allowed without flash. Professional photography requires prior authorization from the museum administration.
Nearby POIs
14 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]The Devils' Museum: A Guide to the Collection — Mikalojus K. Čiurlionis National Museum of Art. Kaunas Cultural Press (2015)View
- [2]Lithuanian Folk Art and Mythology — Jonas Balys. Lithuanian Institute of History (1998)
Key Facts
- Materials
- Wood, Ceramic, Metal, Stone
- Civilization
- Lithuanian
- Accessibility
- Ground floor accessible