The University campus started to take shape in the 16th century within the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Vilnius, in a city quarter built up with brick houses and bounded by four streets: Universiteto, (formerly known as Vyskupu), Šv. Jono, Pilies and Skapo. The design forms of the architectural ensemble are reflective of the major styles – Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Classicism – which dominated Lithuanian architecture.

In 1985 Vilnius University was awarded the European Gold Medal for the protection of monuments. The architectural ensemble of Vilnius University represents Lithuania in the Mini-Europe Park in Brussels. The old campus houses the Faculties of History, Philology and Philosophy, the Institute of Foreign Languages, the University Library and the Rector’s Office. At present the University architectural ensemble is composed of 13 courtyards with 13 buildings, each consisting of several blocks, as well as the Church of St. John and a belfry.