Cross-making: A Lithuanian Tradition
THE BALTIC TIMES
March 23, 2011
LITHUANIA - Cross-making intertwines archaic, Christian and Lithuanian traditions, and divinity. The art of cross-making is recognized as unique and was added to the UNESCO world heritage list in 2001. Quite ironically, Lithuania was the last country in Europe to reject paganism for Catholicism, in the 14th century, and just a few decades ago people still faced persecution for erecting crosses under the iron rule of the USSR. Nevertheless, the problems did not hinder the rise of the famed Hill of Crosses near Siauliai, in northern Lithuania. The shrine has long been a favorite pilgrimage spot for thousands of Catholics. [link]
March 23, 2011
LITHUANIA - Cross-making intertwines archaic, Christian and Lithuanian traditions, and divinity. The art of cross-making is recognized as unique and was added to the UNESCO world heritage list in 2001. Quite ironically, Lithuania was the last country in Europe to reject paganism for Catholicism, in the 14th century, and just a few decades ago people still faced persecution for erecting crosses under the iron rule of the USSR. Nevertheless, the problems did not hinder the rise of the famed Hill of Crosses near Siauliai, in northern Lithuania. The shrine has long been a favorite pilgrimage spot for thousands of Catholics. [link]
“To hammer together a real,
divinity-shining cross is art that worships the Creator,”
- LIUDAS RUGINIS, artist
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