The Hill of the Three Crosses is a historical monument located in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Named after the three large crosses that stand on the summit, the hill has a long and impressive history.

The origin of the crosses is a bit of a mystery, but it is believed that they were originally erected in the 17th century as a symbol of the city’s Catholic faith. Over the years, the crosses have been destroyed and rebuilt several times, often due to wars and other conflicts.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the hill became a place of political significance, when the Soviet authorities, occupying Lithuania, demolished the crosses. However, Vilnius residents restored the crosses secretly, and they continued to serve as a symbol of Lithuania’s resistance to Soviet oppression.

Today, the Hill of Three Crosses is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Lithuania’s national identity. Visitors can climb the hill and enjoy the amazing views of the city and learn more about the history and culture of this fascinating country.

History

The history of the Hill of Three Crosses is closely related to the history of Vilnius and Lithuania. The hill itself is a natural formation that rises 157 meters (515 feet) above sea level and has long been a site of religious significance.

The earliest records of crosses on the mountain date back to the 17th century, when a group of monks erected a wooden cross at the site. In the 18th century, the cross was replaced by a stone structure, at which time two more crosses were added. The three crosses quickly became a symbol of the city’s Catholic faith and remained an important landmark for centuries.

In 1799, the hill was fortified by the Russian Empire, which had recently conquered Lithuania. However, the crosses remained untouched and remained as a symbol of Lithuanian national identity.

During World War II, the hill and its crosses were damaged by bombing and shelling. After the war, the Soviet authorities took control of Lithuania and banned religious symbols, including the cross of the Mount of Three Crosses. In 1950, the crosses were demolished, the mountain was leveled.

For many years, the place of the crosses was empty, but in the 1980s, the people of Lithuania started a movement for independence from the Soviet government. As part of this movement, a group of activists secretly rebuilt the crosses on the hill using wood and metal salvaged from other structures. Crosses became a powerful symbol of Lithuanian resistance, and today remain an important part of the country’s national identity.

In 1989, Lithuania achieved independence from the Soviet Union, and the crosses on the Three Crosses Hill were once again recognized as a symbol of the country’s history and culture. Today, the hill and its crosses are a popular tourist destination, reminding of the long and complex history of Lithuania.

Legends

The Mountain of Three Crosses is surrounded by several legends that give it mysticism and cultural significance.

One of the most famous legends associated with the hill involves the tragic love story of three brothers. According to legend, three brothers fell in love with the same woman, but she could not choose between them. In order to resolve the conflict, the brothers decided to duel to the death. The youngest brother won the duel and erected three crosses on the mountain in memory of his dead brothers and sisters.

Another legend tells about the origin of the crosses themselves. According to this legend, the crosses were built by three Franciscan monks who came to Vilnius in the 17th century. The monks had a vision in which they were told to place three crosses on the hill to protect the city from harm. The monks obeyed the vision, and crosses have stood on the hill ever since.

Another legend is related to the Russian occupation of Vilnius in the 19th century. According to this legend, the Russian army decided to tear down the crosses on the mountain, but failed to do so. Every time the soldiers tried to destroy the crosses, they were struck by lightning, which was considered a sign of divine protection.

These legends, together with the hill’s long and complex history, helped the Three Crosses Hill to become a beloved and enduring symbol of Lithuanian culture and identity.

Five reasons to visit the Hill of Three Crosses

There are many reasons to visit the Three Crosses Mountain. Here are the most important of them:

1. Historical significance: The hill and its crosses have a rich and complex history spanning centuries. From its origins as a prehistoric sacred site to its role as a symbol of Lithuanian national identity, the hill has played an important role in the cultural and political history of the region.

2. Amazing views: the hill offers breathtaking views of the city of Vilnius and its surroundings. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city’s old town, Neris and the surrounding forests and hills.

3. Spiritual Significance: The crosses on the hill are a powerful symbol of the Catholic faith and have been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. The hill is also associated with several legends and myths that make its spiritual significance.

4. Cultural importance: The mountain and its crosses have become an important cultural symbol for Lithuanians, reflecting their resilience, perseverance, and national identity. The hill and its crosses have been the subject of many works of art, literature and music.

5. Outdoor Recreation: Apart from its cultural and historical significance, the hill is also a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. Visitors can hike or bike to the top of the hill and enjoy the views or explore the surrounding forests and hills. The hill is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor gatherings.