It took ten years to rebuild a symbol of the Lithuanian statehood and unity. The palace was opened on the symbolic day for Lithuania - the coronation of King Mindaugas.

Various heads of the state, foreign guests, representatives of organisations and Lithuanians living abroad were present at the grand opening.

According to President Dalia Grybauskaitė, the Palace of the Grand Dukes consolidates the continuation of statehood and the strength of the nation. Only after realising and giving a sense to Lithuania's past people can expect the country to prosper in the future.

'The Royal Palace is a symbol of Lithuanian statehood. It signifies the continuity of our state and the strength of our nation. It is only by perceiving and giving meaning to the history of our state that we can expect national prosperity today and tomorrow," the President said in her welcoming speech.

"It is symbolic that we are opening the door behind which issues important to the whole of Europe were resolved at a time when Lithuania stands at the helm of the European Union.