Biržai Castle and Karst Region

Biržai, Panevėžys3-4 hoursBest: May to September

A reconstructed Renaissance castle surrounded by one of Lithuania's most unusual geological landscapes — a region riddled with sinkholes, karst caves, and mysterious underground rivers.

Biržai offers one of Lithuania's most unexpected combinations — a handsomely reconstructed Renaissance castle surrounded by one of the most geologically unusual landscapes in the Baltic states. The Biržai karst region is riddled with sinkholes, underground rivers, and limestone caves created by the slow dissolution of gypsum and dolomite rock. The castle itself, originally built in the 16th century by the Radziwiłł family, has been reconstructed and now houses the Biržai Regional Museum (Sėla Museum). The moats and artificial lake surrounding the castle add to its photogenic appeal. But the real attraction is the surrounding karst landscape. Over 9,000 sinkholes have been documented in the Biržai region — some appearing suddenly and swallowing sections of road or field. The Kirkilai karst lakes, formed by collapsed sinkholes that filled with groundwater, are among the deepest and most unusual lakes in Lithuania.

Why Visit

A fascinating combination of Renaissance architecture and geological wonder. The karst sinkholes are unique in Lithuania and the castle provides excellent historical context.

History

The castle was built by the Radziwiłł family in the 16th century and was a major Protestant center. The karst features have been forming for millions of years as underground water dissolves the bedrock.

Address

Pilis g. 1, Biržai

Opening Hours

Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00

Admission

€4 adults, €2 students

56.2000, 24.7500

Visitor Tips

1Visit the Kirkilai karst lakes for the most dramatic sinkholes
2The castle museum has excellent regional exhibitions
3The local brewery produces some of Lithuania's best beer
4A walking trail connects major karst features