Hill of Crosses Tea is more than just a mix of natural Lithuanian herbs. It is a feeling, a symbol, and an emotion captured in a single cup. Created as a reflection of the sacred site's spirit, this tea invites you to experience the calm, warmth, and inner peace that many visitors bring back from the Hill of Crosses.
An idea born in January
January marked not only the beginning of a new year but also a new chapter for the Šiauliai District Tourism and Business Information Centre. The new director, Neringa Trinkaitė, took the lead and dedicated her first month not only to paperwork but also to the place she was entrusted to represent. How best to understand a place? To feel it. Visit it. Listen to it. Immerse yourself in it.
Neringa Trinkaitė, Head of Šiauliai district tourism and business information centre
That January morning was cold. Inspired by a walk through the Hill of Crosses and wishing to bring that feeling into everyday life, Neringa decided: tea is a symbol that warms not only the body but also the soul. The idea to create a tea that embodies the spirit of the Hill of Crosses was born. The essential condition: only herbs growing around this sacred site. Only light, warmth, faith, greenery, and serenity – the words Neringa used to describe her vision.
She immediately contacted an old friend, herbalist Gytis Leliukas (UAB "Pas Bobutę"). Together, they began crafting a unique blend. The team at the Tourism and Business Information Centre also joined the creative process – they tasted, discussed, and selected the most harmonious flavour. Thus, more than just a drink was born – an experience you can bring home, gift, or enjoy yourself.
On May 10, during the Camino Lituano pilgrimage from Šiauliai to Naisiai, the tea was officially introduced to the society. Carefully composed of chamomile, linden blossoms, nettle leaves, meadowsweet, and mint, this tea accompanied pilgrims on their journey, warming not just their bodies but also their souls.
The Hill of Crosses – a place of strength, faith, and memory
Located in the Šiauliai District, the Hill of Crosses is not only a religious site but also one of the most powerful symbols of Lithuania’s history and culture. Its origins trace back to the Middle Ages – it is believed that a wooden castle named "Kula" once stood on this hill, destroyed by the Livonian Order in 1348. Later, in the mid-19th century, the first crosses were erected here – silent signs of prayer to honour the victims of uprisings.
Despite the tsarist bans and Soviet attempts to destroy it, the Hill of Crosses continued to grow. Crosses were placed here secretly – at night, quietly, but with great hope. It became a national symbol of faith, spiritual strength, and identity.
The most significant event in the hill’s history that brought it worldwide fame was Pope John Paul II’s visit on September 7, 1993.
After his visit to Lithuania, while in Italy, Pope John Paul II declared that there are two exceptional hills in Europe – La Verna and the Hill of Crosses – between which a spiritual bridge should be built. He encouraged the establishment of a monastery near the Hill. The Franciscans responded to this call, and with the help of brothers from Tuscany, the monastery was consecrated on July 8, 2000 (see: Monastery of the Hill of Crosses, Order of Friars Minor, Lithuanian St. Casimir Province).
Today, the Hill of Crosses is a destination for pilgrims, tourists, and those seeking inner peace. People place crosses not only as personal symbols of faith but also to commemorate important life events – baptisms, First Communions, weddings. Groups of soldiers, officers, and various communities also visit this site, demonstrating unity, respect, and remembrance. Each cross here is a silent witness, and the entire site is a living monument.
Hill of Crosses Tea can be a subtle continuation of this experience – a warm memory of your visit, or a gift for someone who dreams of one day visiting this sacred place.
Hill of Crosses Tea – when a souvenir becomes a ritual
This masterfully balanced blend of natural Lithuanian herbs – chamomile, linden blossoms, nettle, meadowsweet, and mint – is crafted with care. Each herb, grown around the Hill of Crosses, unites the purity of nature with centuries-old traditions. Their gentle harmony not only warms the body but also tells a story of northern Lithuania's spiritual landscape.
We invite you to taste the Hill of Crosses Tea – let every cup become a moment of silence, gratitude, and connection with what truly matters.
