Intangible heritage of Lithuania also is considered as outstanding value to world heritage. Cross-crafting and its symbolism as unique cultural tradition without analogues in the world in 2001 were acknowledged as intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

Very specific cross-crafting tradition and symbolism of it started to develop in 15th century, when Lithuania, the last pagan country in Europe, officially and entirely became catholic country. New ides of Christianity and antique local pagans’ traditions for long time were very closely related in local people mentality. This dualism obviously was reflected in cross-crafting tradition, where can be found symbols of both religions.

Later, with incorporation of Lithuania into the orthodox Russian Empire in the 19th century or under Soviet regime in the 20th century, typical wooden Lithuanian crosses became the symbol of national and religious identity. The crosses for centuries are placed on roadsides, at the entrance to villages or in some places extremely important, o symbolical meaning to particular community.

Department of Cultural Heritage under the Ministry of Culture