Old Trakai Castle was built in a strategically important place and for some time was the capital of Lithuania. It was first mentioned in the chronicle of Vygandas Marburgietis in 1337. The Old Trakai Castle built by Gediminas was one of the oldest brick castles in Lithuania. The castle was ruled by Duke Kęstutis in 1345-1382, whose family dates back to about 1350. Duke Vytautas of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania was born in the castle.