Orthodox church of Icon of Our Lady in Grabarka

The Orthodox Church of Icon of Our Lady is located on a forested hillside in Grabarka and surrounded by thousands of wooden crosses placed by pilgrims over many generations. The grounds include a monastery, overnight accommodation, and dining facilities that support religious activities and accommodate visitors.

The site originated after a cholera epidemic in 1710 drove local residents to seek refuge here and build an initial religious chapel. Over the following centuries, the hillside developed into a significant pilgrimage destination with expanding religious structures.

The church serves as a center for Orthodox believers who gather to perform traditional religious practices and observe the annual Transfiguration celebration in August. The site reflects the deep devotion of visitors who come to express their faith through personal religious acts.

The hillside is accessible by foot through forest paths open to visitors, especially during major religious celebrations. Wear comfortable walking shoes since you will be navigating through woodland and exploring multiple cross-lined pathways on the grounds.

Pilgrims regularly carry hand-made or decorated wooden crosses and place them throughout the forest, with each cross representing a personal prayer or vow. This collection of thousands of crosses has grown organically over time and continues to expand with new additions that document the faith of successive generations.