Cemeteries have a magnetic pull for those who are interested in everything from genealogy to local history to hauntings. Of course, we’re more concerned about hauntings than other interests, at least for the sake of this article. One of the most unique burial sites in all the world is located in the eastern European country of Lithuania.

Situated to the north of Siauliai City in northern Lithuania, the Hill of Crosses stands as a pilgrimage destination packed with an estimated 200,000 crosses, embodying symbols of Christian devotion and serving as memorials to Lithuanian national identity. Alongside the crosses, the hill hosts an array of religious artifacts, including giant crucifixes, statues of the Virgin Mary, carvings of Lithuanian patriots, and numerous miniature effigies.

The crosses, crafted from various materials such as metal, wood, and granite, are arranged in an array of sizes, forming a unique and visually striking landscape. The precise origins of the crosses on the hill remain shrouded in mystery, adding an element of intrigue to this sacred site.

According to local folklore, a church once graced the hill's summit until a powerful storm buried it beneath sand and rock, along with its occupants. Legend has it that the first cross was placed on the hill's location sometime prior to 1831, marking the spot where the church once stood. Throughout generations, tales of alleged ghost sightings, visions of saints, and mysterious appearances have woven into the rich history and lore surrounding the hill. Residents assert that a spectral procession of monks can be witnessed at the base of the hill during sunrise.

Another account of how the site originated comes from a tragic event from the 1300s, where the hill supposedly formed as a result of a Pagan massacre. Legend suggests that the bodies of Samogitians were piled up and buried, giving rise to the landscape. To this day, stories persist of the spirits of both the pagans and monks haunting the hill, especially after nightfall, creating an ethereal atmosphere that adds to the mystique of the Hill of Crosses

If legends are true, the history of the Hill of Crosses—and what lies beneath the surface—make this site a truly unique place. Its mysterious, almost baroque, aesthetic is stunning. Add in a smattering of spirits traversing the area at sunrise, and one would have just about the most spectacular vision possible in this life.