Being Good Friday I thought it would be appropriate to write about the Hill of Three Crosses in Vilnius, Lithuania.
The hill is known locally as Plikasis kanas (Bleak Hill) is found in Kalnai Park.. Crosses have always been popular on this hill. Local legend states that this was the spot where seven Franciscan friars were beheaded. They had been guilty of preaching the bible and putting down the local gods.
In the 17th century to commemorate this wooden crosses were erected. It was soon to be visual highlight of Vilnius. The problem with wood is that it rots away in time and in 1869 the crosses collapsed. Eventually in 1916 they were replaced with a new monument made of concrete. It was designed by Antoni Wiwulski.
In 1950 the Soviet authorities torn down the monument much to the anger of the local residents. The monument was rebuilt during the period when Lithuania was looking for independence from the Soviet Union. The new monument was unveiled on 14 June 1989.
The best reason I give to visit the monument is that you get great views of Vilnius. I would recommend that you visit as dusk starts to bring in nightfall. My visit was in September 2014. It is a climb but once you get to see the views it is well worth the effort.
I would recommend a visit to the Hill of Three Crosses. It is a perfect place to come and reflect.
Until the next post, stay safe, stay healthy and keep smiling.
Steve
midlifewanderlust1965 
What a lovely site to visit and reflect. Sadly in my part of the world, crosses aren’t allowed on government sites. I think we miss out on deeper meanings in an effort to be politically correct sometimes.