The Hill of Crosses lies near the city of Šiauliai, in northern Lithuania, a couple of hours’ drive south of Riga. What looks from the road like a low mound is in fact a field of crosses of every size, from towering wooden crucifixes to tiny rosary-sized ones, planted so thickly that the hill seems to bristle. The tradition began in the nineteenth century, after uprisings against Russian rule, when families set up crosses in memory of those who had died. Under the Soviet occupation the authorities bulldozed the hill several times, yet people returned at night to plant new crosses, and the site became a symbol of quiet resistance and faith. Pope John Paul II visited in 1993, and the hill now draws pilgrims and travellers from around the world. Entry is free, and visitors are welcome to leave a cross of their own.
What you will see
A network of wooden paths winds through the crosses, which clatter and creak in the wind, and rosaries hang from the branches of the larger ones. The atmosphere is quiet and moving rather than showy, and most visitors spend an hour or so wandering, reading inscriptions and taking photographs. Small crosses are sold at stalls near the car park if you would like to leave one, and a newer monastery and chapel stand nearby.
How to visit
Most visitors come on a day tour from Riga that combines the hill with other Baltic sights, such as Rundāle Palace and Bauska Castle, while others go directly on a half-day private trip. The drive takes around two hours each way, and the border between Latvia and Lithuania is within the Schengen area, so there are normally no checks, but you should carry your passport or national ID card. Tours that start at sunrise or end at sunset can give the hill a beautiful light.
Respect and practicalities
The hill is a place of religious significance for many visitors, so keep your voice low, do not move or damage existing crosses and stay on the paths. The ground can be muddy or icy, and there is little shelter, so dress for the weather. There are basic facilities and cafés close to the car park.
Making the most of it
Choose a tour that gives you at least an hour at the hill rather than a quick stop, ask the guide about the Soviet-era history, and consider combining it with a stop at the nearby city of Šiauliai or a visit to Rundāle on the way back. In total expect a long day of roughly ten hours on a combined tour, or five to six on a direct trip.
What to expect
The experience
A guided day trip by minibus or private car across the border to walk the paths among the crosses.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer visitors.
How long
About five to six hours on a direct trip, up to ten on a combined tour.
Tips
Carry ID for the border, dress for wind and mud, and keep a respectful tone.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a moving, off-the-beaten-track day trip.
- Families
- Older children can follow the story; the long drive is hard on little ones.
- Couples
- A quiet, reflective stop, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Pair with
- Rundāle Palace and Bauska Castle on a combined tour.
- Time needed
- Five hours at minimum, a full day when combined.
Good questions
Is the Hill of Crosses in Latvia or Lithuania?+
It is in Lithuania, near the city of Šiauliai, about two hours from Riga.
Is there an entrance fee?+
No, the hill is free to visit, though you may want to buy a small cross to leave.
Do I need a passport?+
Both countries are in the Schengen area, so border checks are normally absent, but carry your passport or ID card.
Why were the crosses bulldozed?+
The Soviet authorities removed them several times to suppress the site’s symbolism, but people kept returning to replace them.
Can I leave my own cross?+
Yes, visitors are welcome to place a cross or rosary, and small ones are sold near the car park.
