How to plan your From Siauliai: Hill of Crosses & Rundale Palace Private Tour

If you’re ever in the city of Siauliai and looking for a nearby destination that offers religious and historical significance, then the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania and the Rundale Palace in Latvia are great options. This private tour from Siauliai takes you to both attractions and gives you the chance to explore these two beautiful and important places with a knowledgeable local guide. Here’s how you can plan your tour to the Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace:

Experience

The private tour from Siauliai takes you to two amazing attractions: the Hill of Crosses pilgrimage site and the Rundale Palace in Latvia. The tour guarantees you a small group experience, so you can enjoy a more personalized and attentive tour. You’ll also have a friendly English-speaking local guide to keep you informed and engaged throughout the tour.

Highlights

With a focus on religious and historical sights, here are the highlights of this tour:

– Explore the Hill of Crosses, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Lithuania.
– Admire the more than 200,000 crosses, effigies, and sculptures that have been brought here by Catholic pilgrims over many centuries.
– See statues of the Virgin Mary, tiny effigies, rosaries, and carvings of Lithuanian patriots.
– Visit the beautiful baroque Rundale Palace in Latvia, which was built in the 18th century and is an outstanding example of the early work of Italian-Russian architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli.
– Get an insight into the palace’s history, with your guide providing information about its original purpose, architectural style, and its impressive renovation.

Full description

The tour starts with pickup at any location within Siauliai. You’ll be meeting a local guide who will take you on this small-group tour experience. After a short introduction and a brief about the itinerary, you will proceed to the Hill of Crosses.

The Hill of Crosses is a Catholic pilgrimage site located in northern Lithuania near the city of Siauliai. It is believed that this place is sacred because of the hundreds and thousands of crosses, miniature effigies, and countless rosaries that are brought here by local and foreign followers on pilgrimage. Through the centuries, many Lithuanians have died in their struggle for freedom, and the Hill of Crosses also reflects their fight for independence, symbolizing their unity and unyielding commitment to their Christian beliefs.

After exploring the Hill of Crosses, the tour will cross over to Latvia to visit the Rundale Palace. The palace, built in the 18th century, is an outstanding example of baroque architecture and is one of Latvia’s most visited attractions. It was designed by the famous Italian-Russian architect, Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli, whose other notable work includes the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg. The professionally renovated part of the palace is open to the public, with informative exhibits on the palace’s history.

The tour ends with a drop-off back at your original pickup location in Siauliai.

How to Book

To book the tour, head over to GetYourGuide’s website and book the From Siauliai: Hill of Crosses & Rundale Palace Private Tour. The tour costs $162.78 per person and includes transportation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide. Book the tour here: book here.

Conclusion

This private tour is perfect for those looking to explore some of the most important religious and historical attractions in Lithuania and Latvia. The Hill of Crosses and Rundale Palace both offer something unique and interesting, and with a friendly local guide to lead the way, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. Make sure to book ahead, and get ready to explore these two beautiful destinations on this comprehensive tour.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is a pilgrimage site located in northern Lithuania, about 12 km north of the city of Šiauliai. Over the years, it has become a symbol of Lithuanian religious identity and a popular destination for tourists. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about The Hill of Crosses.

What is The Hill of Crosses?

The Hill of Crosses is an ancient religious site that dates back to at least the 14th century. It is a mound that is covered with thousands of crosses of different shapes and sizes, left there by pilgrims who have visited the site over the centuries.

What is the significance of The Hill of Crosses?

The Hill of Crosses is a symbol of Lithuanian religious identity and resistance to the ruling powers, both pagan and foreign. The site has come to be seen as a symbol of the Lithuanian struggle for independence and freedom.

What is the history of The Hill of Crosses?

The history of The Hill of Crosses is shrouded in legend and mystery. According to one legend, the hill was created by a grieving mother who placed a small wooden cross on the site where her son was killed by the pagans. Over time, other people began to leave crosses on the site as well, and it eventually grew into the massive hill that we see today.

Is The Hill of Crosses a Catholic site?

Although The Hill of Crosses is primarily associated with the Catholic faith, it is a site that is revered by people of all faiths. The site has become a symbol of hope, faith, and freedom, and people from all over the world come to visit and leave their own crosses.

How many crosses are on The Hill of Crosses?

It is impossible to know exactly how many crosses are on The Hill of Crosses, as new ones are added every day. However, estimates range from 100,000 to 400,000, depending on who you ask.

What is the best time to visit The Hill of Crosses?

The Hill of Crosses is open to visitors all year round, but the best time to visit is usually in the early spring or late fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. If you visit during the summer months or on weekends, you may find the site to be quite crowded.

Is The Hill of Crosses accessible for disabled people?

Unfortunately, The Hill of Crosses is not very accessible for disabled people. The site is situated on a steep hill, and there are many uneven paths and steps to navigate. However, there are places where you can sit and rest, and the view from the top is breathtaking, so it may still be worth the effort.

What else is there to see and do near The Hill of Crosses?

If you are visiting The Hill of Crosses, there are several other attractions that are worth checking out as well. Some of the other popular destinations in the area include:

• The Žemaitija National Park
• The Rundāle Palace in Latvia
• The Hill of Witches in Juodkrantė
• The Cold War museum in Plokštinė

Can I leave a cross on The Hill of Crosses?

Yes, visitors are encouraged to leave their own crosses on The Hill of Crosses, as this is a tradition that has been going on for centuries. You can bring your own cross or buy one from one of the many vendors near the site.

Is The Hill of Crosses safe to visit?

Yes, The Hill of Crosses is generally safe to visit, although you should always take normal precautions when traveling to any new place. The site is patrolled by security guards, and there are plenty of tourists around, so you should feel safe.

Conclusion

The Hill of Crosses is a unique and fascinating destination that is well worth a visit if you are in the area. Whether you are a religious pilgrim or a curious traveler, you are sure to find something of interest at this incredible site. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views.