Ainavu Dārgumi
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Latgalian crucifix in a country scene
Latgale
Listen to the landscape

Crucifixes are an integral part of the Latgale landscape. They can be seen in villages and at roadsides which had already been built by the end of the 18th century. They became more common in the 19th century, when, after Latgale’s inclusion in the Russian empire, some aspects of religious life were restricted. Catholic peasants, with the help of the clergy, transferred worship away from churches.

The crucifixes not only allow people to maintain traditions, they become symbols of hope and also interact with everyday life – after praying to Our Lady on May evenings, people continue to muse over everyday events. These are places for reflection and gathering together. The crucifix in the photographs was erected by members of the Apšenieks family at Bēliņi in Briezuciems Parish, in 1994.

  • Latgale has crosses of different types and placements: simple uncovered crosses, most often at roadsides, roofed crosses, mostly in cemeteries, and crosses built into open porches. Occasionally, the crosses are also placed on masonry columns.

Other Latgale Landscapes

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Ancient Zilupe valley

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St Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church in Pasiene

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Lake Rāzna

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Mākoņkalns area

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Lūznava Manor

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Ludza with lakes and castle ruins

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Daugavpils fortress

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Daugava River Bends

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Aglona Basilica

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