Castle place

Castle place in Klaipėda has always been the most significant part of the city. The castle impelled the construction of city; the bastions protected Klaipėda from enemies.

Klaipėda castle was first mentioned in a document issued on 29 July 1252. Magister the Great Eberhard von Zeine agreed with the Kursh Bishop Heinrich on the building of a castle.

Klaipėda castle lost its military importance after Seven Years’ War and was gradually abandoned. In 1770, the outside fortifications of the castle were sold and destroyed. The buildings were adapted for the needs of the town. Over time, the abandoned castle started to slowly collapse.

In the beginning of 20th century, part of castle’s channels was buried. The territory of Klaipėda castle site was assigned to the dockyard and separated from the city. For years, no one could visit this place.

Now, this square is used for various events, city celebrations, street acts, handcraft fairs.