Exposition of Martynas Mažvydas’ “Catechism”

April 8 | 10 a. m. - 7 p. m. | VU Library, Franciszek Smuglewicz Hall

On 8 April, Martynas Mažvydas’ “Catechism”, the first printed Lithuanian book, will be on display at Franciszek Smuglewicz Hall of VU Library. The tradition to show the original copy of the book every year for a day gives a perfect opportunity for the general public to get a closer look at this significant piece of our cultural heritage. 

Published in 1547 in Königsberg, Mažvydas’ “Catechism” is the first printed Lithuanian book, the publishing of which has started a new period in the history of the Lithuanian language. Only two copies of this unique book are known to exist in the world. One copy is kept at Vilnius University Library, while the other at Toruń University Library.  

In marking the birthday of Vilnius University, some unconventional objects for a library that were found in old documents will be shown to the public this year. It might be surprising to see in the exhibition pieces such as a Christmas wafer decorated with the “IHS” Christogram with the cross, a brass counter and a golden plate (these objects were found in the books that are kept in the Library), or a shilling and a silver button with heraldic symbols from the nobleman’s clothes (these objects were found in the manuscripts). Certain book covers might also be considered “unconventional”: some are gilded and with ornate clasps, others are decorated with straw, while covers of some other books are fit to play board games. If you wonder what other surprises are waiting for you, come to the Library and see for yourself the one-day lasting exhibition! 

Location: VU Library, Franciszek Smuglewicz Hall (Universiteto str. 3, 1st floor) 

Date and time: on 8 April, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

More information can be found here.