Bronze bust of Frank Zappa on a steel pole in a Vilnius courtyard
Photo by www.atlasobscura.com / See source website
🗿 Odd LandmarksVilniusEasy access

Frank Zappa Bust

Vilnius, Vilnius15-30 minutesBest: Year-round

The world's first official monument to American musician Frank Zappa, erected in Vilnius in 1995 — despite Zappa having no connection to Lithuania whatsoever.

In 1995, Vilnius became the unlikely home of the world's first official Frank Zappa monument. The bronze bust, created by sculptor Konstantinas Bogdanas, sits atop a tall stainless steel pole in a courtyard near Kalinausko Street. Its existence is one of the great quirky stories of post-Soviet Lithuania. After independence, a group of Lithuanian artists and intellectuals, led by the Vilnius Frank Zappa Fan Club, decided that erecting a monument to the iconoclastic American musician would be the perfect symbol of their newfound freedom. Zappa himself had no connection to Lithuania, but his spirit of rebellion and non-conformity resonated deeply with a nation emerging from Soviet control. The monument was unveiled on November 19, 1995, drawing international media attention and establishing Vilnius as a city with a sense of humor about its place in the world. Today it remains a beloved oddity and a popular stop for music fans and curious visitors alike.

Why Visit

A wonderfully absurd monument that perfectly captures post-independence Lithuania's irreverent spirit. It's a great conversation starter and photo opportunity.

History

Unveiled in 1995, just four years after Lithuanian independence. Frank Zappa's widow Gail gave her blessing to the project. The sculptor Konstantinas Bogdanas had previously made busts of Soviet leaders.

Address

Kalinausko g. 1, Vilnius

54.6892, 25.2708

Visitor Tips

  • 1Located in a courtyard — easy to miss if you're not looking
  • 2Combine with a walk through Vilnius Old Town
  • 3Great photo opportunity
  • 4The courtyard sometimes hosts small events

Tags

Frank ZappasculptureVilniusmusicquirky monument

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