Palanga old Gymnasium Reopens After Renovation, Preserving Historic Charm
Palanga, Lithuania – The meticulously restored Palanga Old Gymnasium has reopened its doors, blending its rich Art Deco heritage with modern learning environments. Located just 500 meters from the baltic Sea, the school boasts unique features like classrooms overlooking aquariums, offering students an immersive educational experiance.
The gymnasium underwent extensive renovations with a key focus on preserving its original architectural details. Director Sandra Žutautienė, who has worked at the school for six years-previously as a social educator and deputy education lead-confirmed the accomplished retention of the original parquet flooring throughout all three floors. Authentic Art Deco-style luminaires were also salvaged, with a significant number remaining intact in one corridor. Restored ceramic floor tiles further contribute to the building’s past integrity.
“We very much asked for the parquet to be maintained during the renovation. we succeeded – we have it on all three floors,” Žutautienė stated. “The authentic art deco-style luminaires have survived – how many remaining healthy, both in one corridor. Ceramic floor tiles have been restored.”
A new inscription, “Light from High Towers, which felt the way,” was added above the main entrance in 2023. J. Vaičiulienė noted the serendipitous timing, coinciding with the 2025 anniversary year of Lithuanian artist and composer M.K. Čiurlionis,whose influence is subtly reflected in the school’s aesthetic. “Čiurlionis appeared on our facade before 2025 was declared the year of Čiurlionis,” Vaičiulienė smiled.
The renovated gymnasium promises to continue serving as a vital educational institution in Palanga, offering a unique learning environment steeped in history and inspired by the natural beauty of the Lithuanian coastline.Erik Ovchaarenko / Photo by BNS / Palanga Old Gymnasium
