Church of St. Michael the Archangel, Kaunas

"Built between 1891 and 1895, the church was originally intended as an Orthodox cathedral for the Russian military garrison stationed in Kaunas during the time it was part of the Russian Empire. The church's design reflects this history, showcasing a neo-Byzantine architectural style with its characteristic five domes and triple Corinthian columns. Interestingly, it was designed to be the largest military church of its kind, boasting 266 large and small columns and pilasters, and able to accommodate up to 2,000 worshippers. Following Lithuania's declaration of independence in 1918, the church underwent a significant transformation. It was converted into a Roman Catholic church and dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, the patron saint of soldiers. This shift symbolized the Lithuanian people's reclamation of their land and religious freedom."