The Hill of Witches—Raganų kalnas
Wood carving has long been an integral part of Lithuanian folk art, with artisans creating a wide range of intricately crafted objects, from elaborately decorated distaffs used in flax spinning to the grand wooden crosses that dot the countryside. Other traditional carvings include roofed pillar shrines (koplytstulpiai), pole chapels, household items, and ritual objects, each carrying symbolic meanings rooted in ancient beliefs. Among these diverse expressions of Lithuanian woodwork, the Hill of Witches (Raganų Kalnas) stands out as a unique and immersive open-air sculpture trail that brings Lithuanian folklore, mythology, and pagan traditions to life.
Nestled in the dunes of Juodkrantė on the Curonian Spit, the Hill of Witches (Raganų Kalnas) is an open-air sculpture trail that brings Lithuanian folklore, mythology, and pagan traditions to life through the art of wood carving. This enchanting site is home to over 80 wooden sculptures, each depicting legendary characters, devils, witches, and spirits from Lithuania’s rich folklore.
Park sign
Witch
Fisherman at sea
The origins of Raganų Kalnas as a cultural landmark date back to 1979 when a group of Lithuanian folk artists, inspired by the region’s deep-rooted traditions, began carving wooden sculptures along the winding forest path. Over the years, the collection has grown, with new carvings added during periodic gatherings of sculptors, preserving the continuity of this unique artistic endeavor.
Before becoming a showcase for folk art, the hill itself held significance in local tradition, serving as a gathering place for Midsummer (Joninės) celebrations. This festival, linked to ancient pagan rituals, is associated with fire, nature, and mythical beings, elements that are vividly reflected in the sculptures.
Each sculpture on the Hill of Witches is crafted from local wood, primarily oak and pine, using traditional carving techniques. Lithuanian folk artists skillfully shape these figures with chisels and axes, incorporating traditional motifs such as swirling patterns, exaggerated facial expressions, and dynamic poses that capture the essence of the mythical beings they represent. The sculptures are left unpainted, allowing nature to weather them over time, adding to their mystical aura.
One of the most striking figures is the sculpture of Neringa, the giantess from Lithuanian legend who is said to have formed the Curonian Spit by carrying sand in her apron to protect fishermen from the stormy sea. Neringa is depicted as a powerful yet benevolent figure, symbolizing protection and resilience. Her presence on the Hill of Witches ties the folklore of the region to the very landscape itself, emphasizing the deep connection between nature and mythology in Lithuanian tradition.
Neringa
Neringa’s birth
Neringa’s death
Walking through the Hill of Witches is like stepping into a storybook of Lithuanian mythology. The pathway winds through a dense forest, creating a natural stage for these haunting and humorous figures. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the sculptures, as some double as benches or climbing structures, blending art with the landscape in a playful and immersive way.
Today, the Hill of Witches remains a testament to Lithuania’s enduring folk traditions and the timeless art of wood carving. Whether visited during the mystical glow of Midsummer’s Eve or the golden hues of autumn, this magical site offers a glimpse into the mythical world that has shaped Lithuanian cultural identity for centuries.
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