Žemaičių Kalvarija Church of the Visitation
Telšių apskritis
Žemaičių Kalvarija Church of the Visitation, located in the town of Žemaičių Kalvarija within the Žemaitija National Park in Lithuania, is a significant religious and cultural landmark. The basilica, built between 1780 and 1822, is part of a complex that includes a former Dominican (later Marian) monastery, recognized as a cultural monument since 2008. The church is famous for its miraculous figures, notably the crucified Jesus statue and the 17th-century painting of the Virgin Mary with Child brought from Rome, which has been crowned and honored by Pope Benedict XVI. The town is a pilgrimage site, hosting the Great Žemaičių Kalvarija Festival annually in July, attracting large crowds who partake in traditional Samogitian religious rites. Surrounding the basilica are nineteen chapels representing the Stations of the Cross, forming a 7,000-step path that reflects Baroque-era folk architecture with monumental wall paintings inside. The town itself is an urban monument with a rich history dating back to 1253, originally known as Gardai, and has evolved through various historical phases, including its role in religious and political events. The spiritual atmosphere, architectural heritage, and vibrant traditions make Žemaičių Kalvarija a unique destination for visitors interested in Lithuanian religious culture and history.
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Consiglio: The best time to visit Žemaičių Kalvarija Church is during the Great Žemaičių Kalvarija Festival held annually in early July, when the town hosts large pilgrimages and traditional events. Visitors are advised to plan ahead and consider purchasing tickets or making reservations in advance for festival activities. Smaller pilgrimages also occur on February 2, March 2, and January 2. The site offers spiritual experiences and cultural insights, with discounts typically available for groups and pilgrims. Check the official website for up-to-date schedules and special events.
Fatti interessanti
- •The basilica houses a miraculous painting of the Virgin Mary with Child brought from Rome in the mid-17th century, crowned by Pope Benedict XVI in 2006.
- •The nineteen chapels along the Stations of the Cross path are mostly wooden and decorated with monumental wall paintings, reflecting 17th-18th century folk Baroque architecture.
- •The Great Žemaičių Kalvarija Festival in July is one of Lithuania's largest religious events, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually.
- •The town was originally called Gardai until 1637 and was renamed several times, including Varduva during Soviet rule.
- •The basilica complex includes a former Dominican monastery, which now hosts theological students and cultural institutions.
Storia
Žemaičių Kalvarija has a long history first documented in 1253 under the name Gardai.
In the early 15th century, the area was gifted to the Samogitian bishop by Vytautas the Great.
The first church was built in the late 16th century, and significant religious development occurred in the 17th century when the Dominican order established a monastery and constructed nineteen chapels symbolizing the Stations of the Cross.
The current basilica was constructed between 1780 and 1822.
The town suffered during the 1831 and 1863 uprisings and was renamed Varduva during Soviet times before regaining its historic name in 1989.
The miraculous painting of the Virgin Mary with Child was crowned in 2006, affirming its spiritual significance.
Guida del luogo
Basilica of the Visitation1780-1822
The main church building constructed between 1780 and 1822, featuring Baroque architectural elements and housing the miraculous icons, including the crowned painting of the Virgin Mary with Child and the statue of crucified Jesus.
Stations of the Cross Chapels1637-1639
Nineteen chapels symbolizing the Stations of the Cross are spread across the town, forming a 7,000-step pilgrimage path. Most chapels are wooden with richly decorated interiors featuring monumental wall paintings typical of 17th-18th century folk Baroque style.
Former Dominican Monastery1642
A historic monastery established in 1642, now a cultural monument housing the Motiejus Valančius Gymnasium and theological students from the Telšiai seminary.
Contatto
Telefono: (0-448) 43088