12. Lithuanian Armed Forces Uhlan Battalion Complex

About

The architecturally distinctive barracks complex is one of the most prominent and recognisable features of Alytus’ urban landscape. Originally home to an artillery brigade of the Imperial Russian Army, the barracks housed the Uhlan Regiment of the Lithuanian Grand Duchess Birutė – an elite, exemplary and highly regarded cavalry unit – during the interwar period. Since 1994, the complex has housed the regiment bearing the same name, now serving as a motorised infantry unit.

Walking through the site, which covers an area equivalent to 65 football pitches, one can trace how the functions of the buildings have changed over time while their 19th century architectural character has remained intact. The former stables for the Uhlan Regiment’s 500 horses, veterinary clinic, and artillery and ammunition storage buildings have since been replaced by workshops for servicing modern “Vilkas” infantry fighting vehicles.

The complex features one of Lithuania’s most beautiful military buildings – the former regimental headquarters. Its richly decorated façade, inspired by Neo-Gothic castles, is richly embellished with decorative patterns of coloured brickwork, centred around an authentic double door.

Inside, the headquarters hall rivals even the most ornate interiors of aristocratic residences – its colourful stucco decorations combine symbols of war and peace, flaming torches alternating with laurel wreaths – and music from the orchestra room in the attic having once reached the hall through special openings beneath the ceiling. An uhlan sculpture stands out along the avenue: a rider with his sword raised towards the east, mounted on a rearing horse. Today, the sculpture serves as a powerful focal point, connecting the history of the complex with the present.