Memorial Hills of Crosses in Lithuania: Memory and Identity

Abstract

This article examines the memorial hills of crosses in Lithuania as significant lieux de mémoire that help to sustain historical memory and national identity. By analysing the intentions of founding these hills and of erecting memorial monuments, the ornamentation, symbols, iconography, and inscriptions of these monuments, the study reveals how traditional cross-crafting serves to commemorate the victims of Soviet repressions, partisans, deportees and important historical events. The research highlights the importance of universal symbols of suffering and struggle for freedom in representing traumatic and heroic historical realities; while also discussing symbols and motifs relevant to sustaining national identity. Furthermore, the documentary nature of the inscriptions serves to restore historical truth and document Lithuania’s path to independence. Ultimately, the article concludes that these sites are still actively used to record new stages of the nation’s history.