Lithuanian Magnate Palace Transformed into Luxury Vilnius Hotel

The Pacai Palace, once a grand residence of Lithuania's powerful Pacai magnate family in Vilnius, has undergone a meticulous revitalization to become the luxurious five-star Pacai hotel. The transformation preserved the historic Baroque architecture while discreetly integrating contemporary design features.

Located on Didžioji Street in Vilnius's Old Town, the palace is one of two residences the Pacai family owned in the city. While other Pacai properties, like the one in modern-day Kaunas, have fallen into ruin, this significant 17th-century palace has been preserved. The other Vilnius residence now houses the Polish Embassy.

The hotel's revitalization was entrusted to the Vilnius-based architectural firm YES.design, led by architect Saulius Mikštas. The design philosophy centered on maintaining historical details, such as exposed brickwork, wooden beams, and original frescoes, while adding modern comforts. New spaces were constructed as "auxiliary background" to the palace, ensuring they complement rather than dominate the historic structure.

Interestingly, the palace itself served a semi-hospitality function even in the 17th century. It hosted distinguished guests who paid for their stays, with the revenue supporting the Baroque Church of Sts. Peter and Paul, which the Pacai family had endowed. Throughout history, the palace welcomed notable figures including Napoleon Bonaparte, Tsars Peter I and Alexander I, and King John III Sobieski.

Today, the Pacai hotel offers 104 rooms and suites decorated in a subdued palette of beiges, whites, grays, and browns, featuring wood, marble, and minimalist leather furnishings, complemented by artwork. The complex also includes a spacious courtyard, blending Baroque opulence with modern luxury.