Aukštieji Šančiai hillfort, Ancient hillfort in Šančiai, Lithuania
Aukštieji Šančiai is an archaeological site located on a high terrace above the Nemunas River, with oak trees covering the landscape and creating a natural woodland. The site preserves the remains of ancient defensive structures built on this elevated terrain.
The hillfort dates from the early period of Baltic tribal societies and demonstrates how indigenous peoples in Lithuania defended their lands against external threats. The structure reflects military construction techniques that were refined over generations.
Next to the hillfort, members of the Romuva religious community built a fire altar and created a stone circle calendar. These elements show how the site connects today with ancient Baltic beliefs and practices.
The site is accessed via K. Baršausko Street with a path leading directly to the hillfort before reaching a nearby cemetery. The elevated location and woodland terrain require sturdy footwear for comfortable walking across uneven ground.
One oak tree near the hillfort bears markings attributed to Perkūnas, the Baltic thunder god, according to local tradition. These carvings connect the archaeological past of the place with living traditions that visitors can observe today.
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