The Hill of Crosses: Lithuanian Landmark, Story of Hope, Defiance, Faith & Freedom

The Hill of Crosses has about 100 000 crosses. It is said that first crosses were erected here by the next-of-kin of the rebels that fell in the 1831 rebellion. TheHill of Crosses ia an historical architectural monument, it is a unique composition of folk art. The Hill of crosses atract’s people with it’s peace, spirituality, authenticity and sacred nature.

Nearly 185 years ago, Lithuanians placed the first crosses on this hill which has become a sacred pilgrimage site. After researching the Hill of Crosses, we’d like to tell you the story of the people and site as it’s become a symbol of hope, of religious perseverance, of faith and even of freedom for Lithuanian people.

Hill of hope: In 1991, when Lithuania acquired its long awaited independence, the hill became a dual symbol of Lithuania's Catholic faith and her national identity

Plea for divine help: Some of the crosses bear messages to God

Modesta Vaisvilaite ties a cross to the hill: When the Russians again occupied Lithuania, during the soviet period, religion was forbidden

Wood and metal: Today there are an estimated 200,000 crosses, carvings and shrines at the site made out of everything from wood to metal

Ritual: The tradition of leaving crosses began after an uprising against the Russian tsar was put down in 1831

Prayers: Vygandas Drazdauskas with a cross asking for helath for his father, success for his girlfriend for her exams, and a peaceful life