Lukiškių kalėjimas (also known as the Lukiškės Remand Prison or Lukiškių Street Prison) is a prison located in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania.
Lukiškių kalėjimas was built in the late 19th century. It was originally intended to serve as a military prison, but later served as a general-purpose prison as well.
During the Soviet occupation of Lithuania, Lukiškės Prison was used to hold criminal offenders, political prisoners, and exiles who had escaped their designated place of exile. When passing by the prison, visitors may notice Saint Nicholas' Orthodox Church, which was given a large space within the prison complex due to the belief that faith could lead to rehabilitation. The church was decorated with paintings, carpets, and icons created by well-known artists.
Lukiškių kalėjimas had a reputation for being a harsh and overcrowded facility. It has been criticized by human rights organizations for its poor conditions and treatment of prisoners.
After the prison was closed, the facility was converted into a cultural center. In 2020, it was used as a location for filming the fourth season of Stranger Things. Later that year, the Lithuanian government announced plans to sell part of the complex. In 2022, the tourism agency in Vilnius announced that a cell from the complex, which was decorated to resemble those shown in the TV show Stranger Things, would be available for rent on Airbnb.
As of now, the former prison facility, now called Lukiškės Prison 2.0, has been transformed into a cultural center. Over 250 artists, musicians, and creators have established studios in the building. It is now used as a venue for musical, cultural, and artistic events. The prison's interior and exterior have been preserved in order to honor the history of the building and the notable figures who were once held there. The name "Lukiškės Prison 2.0" symbolizes the start of a new era for the facility as a cultural center, rather than a place of confinement.
It may be hard to envision what life was like within the walls of Lukiškės Prison, but guided tours are available to provide a glimpse into the past. These tours allow visitors to explore the architecture, visit the prison's hidden corners, and learn about its secrets.
During the day, visitors can enter the prison's yard and enjoy a drink at the bar or try some of the best pizzas in town on the weekends in the summer. There are also other food options available, including eggs Benedict, French toast, and waffles inspired by the TV show Stranger Things. There are many hot and cold beverage choices available, and visitors can socialize with local artists, musicians, and other interesting people at the local pubs and bars.
