Pilies Muziejus (Klaipeda Castle and Castle Museum), Klaipeda

The Klaipėda Castle Museum was inaugurated on August 1, 2002 during the celebration of Klaipėda's 750th anniversary. Nestled beneath the earth embankment in the bastion of Prince Frydrich's porterna—formerly an artillery stronghold in the 17th century—the museum offers an immersive journey through the evolution of Klaipėda Castle and the city from the 13th to the 17th centuries.

The exhibition begins in the postern tunnel, where curated displays unfold the distinct stages of development during the aforementioned centuries. Notably, artifacts representing Cursian weapons and jewelry are showcased, reflecting the unique culture of the Cursian land of Pilsotos, which predated the establishment of the Teutonic Order in the Klaipėda region.

Dedicated sections explore the founding of Klaipėda, featuring replicas of foundational documents, a schematic model depicting the city and castle layout from the 13th to the 16th centuries, and various household items recovered from Klaipėda Castle. One standout exhibit is a 16th-century gold ring adorned with precious gems.

Moving into Poterna, a room adjacent to the tunnel, visitors encounter a domestic scene from the 17th century. Mannequins dressed in period attire stand amidst restored domestic ceramics unearthed during excavations of the old town and castle. A large postern room hosts a detailed model illustrating the 17th-century layout of the city and castle, providing a captivating perspective.

The museum also depicts the city's readiness to repel the Swedish army, featuring soldiers, ammunition, and a massive 1-ton, 2-meter-long cannon discovered during the reconstruction of a nearby bridge. Additionally, remnants of a 14th-century bridge are preserved on display in the same hall, offering a tangible connection to the city's past.