Mission The "Vilniaus Gaono Žydų Istorijos Muziejus" defines its mission as discovering the authentic Jewish world of Lithuania, preserving its heritage, teaching the lessons of history, and building a shared future. This reflects the institution's dedication to preserving cultural heritage and strengthening community. Activities Founded in 1998, the "VGJIM" preserves, researches, restores and exhibits the historical, material and spiritual heritage of Lithuanian Jews. The institution acts as an important promoter of culture and traditions, presenting Jewish art, history and objects related to the Holocaust. History The Museum's roots date back to 1913, when the first Jewish Museum was established in Vilnius. During the restoration period, in 1989, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania returned most of the exhibits, and in 1997, on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the death of the Vilna Gaon, the museum was named after him. Objectives The aims of the Museum are to combine the collection, preservation and research of museum objects with public education, and to link the preservation of the history and cultural heritage of Lithuanian Jews with the cultural and educational needs of the population. Branches The "VGJIM" has five branches, each of which presents different aspects of Jewish history, cultural heritage and tragedy: the Samuel Bak Museum, the Holocaust Exposition, the Paneriai Memorial, the future Museum of Lithuanian Jewish Culture and Identity, and the Jacques Lipshitz Memorial Museum in Druskininkai. Fields of activity The Museum is active in the fields of collecting, exhibition, research and education. This includes the collection of Judaica exhibits, the preparation of exhibitions, research into the history of Lithuanian Jewry and educational programmes for community education. Key Achievements "VGJIM" has become an important cultural and historical intermediary, promoting public awareness of the importance of Jewish culture and history through its exhibitions, publications and educational programmes. The Museum is an important partner of the Lithuanian and international community, promoting cultural dialogue and the preservation of Jewish heritage.
