Vilnius Calvary (Vilnius)

 park, forest, calvary, interesting place, Cultural heritage of Lithuania

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It was conceived to build a Calvary – Stations of the Cross – in Verkiai as a token of gratitude to the Lord for the victory over the Russian army in Russian–Lithuanian war that lasted from 1655-1661. In 1662, about 170 hectare of land on the estate of Verkiai were measured for that. The Chapter of Vilnius allocated a lump sum for this construction. There was to be a second Calvary in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. The construction of the first wooden church and chapels continued until 1669. Dominican Order watched the Calvary and fostered pilgrims. In 1962 soviets exploded the chapels, except the nearest 4 along the church, and in 1963 destroyed them fully. They were rebuilt in 1990-2002. Now this picturesque place again became a popular pilgrimage site.
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