Devils’ Museum

The Devils’ Museum (Velnių muziejus) in Kaunas is one of the strangest and most distinctive museums in Europe. Founded by artist Antanas Žmuidzinavičius in the 20th century, it began with his personal collection of devil figurines and grew into a public institution housing more than 3,000 pieces from around the world.

The collection includes sculptures, masks, paintings, and carvings that depict devils, demons, and spirits from a wide range of cultures. Some are grotesque, others humorous or satirical, reflecting the many ways societies have personified evil, temptation, and mischief. Lithuanian folklore is especially well represented, highlighting the devil’s role in local myths and legends.

Far from a celebration of darkness, the museum functions as a study of symbolism, fear, and human imagination. The sheer variety of devilish figures — from terrifying monsters to caricatures mocking authority — creates a surreal atmosphere that blurs the line between horror and humour. It is a place where visitors confront both the frightening and the absurd sides of humanity’s fascination with the devil.