Vytautas the Great War Museum, Kaunas

Since I am a historian specializing in wartime history, I of course instinctively like such museums even before I go through the front door. Visiting them is a bit like having your favorite student sit for an oral exam – I interpret everything to their favor.



Soldier preparing a ceremony outside Vytautas the Great war Museum

I even liked the smell in this museum. In my mind, museums should have that very characteristic smell of old stuff. Like the smell of your grandfathers old boxes from the attic, where he kept his war medals and high school diplomas. This museum has that particular smell, along with a hint of “odeur de machine oil”. Just enough to bring back memories of similar museums I have visited previously.

 

The tomb of the unknown soldier, in fron of the war museum

 

 

I would spend money on a guided tour in such places, since that is the best way to make the exhibitions come to life. Don`t be afraid to give the guide some hints as to what information you are most interested in, like for instance weapons, uniforms or special parts of history. If they are any good they know a whole lot more than what they usually convey during the standard tour.
 

It is tempting to call this one «my little tank», but I fear it is merely a piece of mechanized artillery.

People interested in artifacts will have a good time, since the museum has many such on display. Those expecting dazzling multimedia experiences will probably be disappointed. As far as I can remember there was no restaurant and if in fact there was a restaurant and I am unable to remember it, that does not really speak in its favor. All war museums should have good restaurants or cafes, since real enthusiasts should find entertainment there to last at least the whole day. The restaurant then becomes vital for keeping the rest of the family from staging a mutiny while the father (or mother) of the house is busy taking in the finer points of the many exhibitions.

 Rating: Recommended