WAY OF SAINT JAMES

SECTION OF THE WAY: Kartena–Kretinga

Hiking the section of the route from the town of Kartena will allow you to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The flowing water of the river, the peace of the forest and meadows will accompany you for most of the hike until you finally reach the city of Kretinga. You will continue walking along the winding path of Paustauninkas Park until you reach the 400-year-old Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the very centre of the city. It is famous for the traditions of the Franciscan friars, historical heritage, art and wood carvings. This church is a witness of the final establishment of Christianity in the lands of Kretinga. The always friendly Franciscans will offer you a night in the hundreds-year-old palace. However, before resting, it is still necessary to visit the Tourist Information Centre of Kretinga District, located next to the church. Here you will receive a pilgrim's press and a lot of information about the places of interest in Kretinga region. One such place is right next to the church. This is the Lourdes Grotto built between the wars, a copy of the Lourdes in France. People say that the prayers at the grotto are very powerful, and the spring gushing there has healing powers. One more place famous for miracles is in the old cemetery of Kretinga. On the way from the city, on the left side of the road in the cemetery you can see a tiny but unique chapel. Under its graceful vaults rests the famous botanist and monk Jurgis Pabrėža, who is called a saint. At his grave, people pray for recovery. On the other side of the street from the old cemetery stands the neo-Gothic chapel-mausoleum of the Counts Tiškevičius family. Counts Tiškevičiai, the guardians of Kretinga Manor, are laid to rest in it.