GC16NDB Kryžiu kalnas (Traditional Cache) in Lithuania created by Westcoast8

This cache has been archived.

Westcoast8: For more than four years this cache has thrilled hundreds of geocachers from all over the world. Unfortunately, the site is under reconstruction and the cache has to be archived for now. Maybe someone living a bit closer to the site would like to place a new one once the construction work has finished.

Thank you for all your fabulous comments over the years!

GC16NDB ▼

A cache by Westcoast8 Message this owner

Hidden : 10/6/2007

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:

The Hill of Crosses just outside Šiauliai is an extraordinary place of worship.

The exact origins are unknown, but it is considered that the first crosses were placed on the former Jurgaiciai or Domantai hill fort after the 1831 Uprising. Over the centuries, not only crosses, but giant crucifixes, carvings of Lithuanian patriots, statues of the Virgin Mary and thousands of tiny effigies and rosaries have been brought here by Catholic pilgrims. The number of crosses is unknown, but estimates put it at about 50,000.

Most recently, the site took on a special significance during the years 1944-1990, when Lithuania was occupied by the Soviet Union. Continuing to travel to the Hill and leave their tributes, Lithuanians used it to demonstrate their allegiance to their original identity, religion and heritage; it was a venue of peaceful resistance. Although the Soviets worked hard to remove new crosses, and bulldozed the site at least three times (including attempts in 1963 and 1973). There were even rumors that the authorities planned to build a dam on the nearby Kulve River, a tributary to Muša, so that the hill would end up under water.

On September 7, 1993, Pope John Paul II visited the Hill of Crosses, declaring it a place for hope, peace, love and sacrifice.

Source: (visit link)

FFC will be emailed!

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Haqrearvgu. Ba gbc.

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)