Kretinga Lourdes Grotto

The Kretinga Lourdes Grotto, a significant symbol of Kretinga Town in Lithuania, was inaugurated on August 2, 1933, in the presence of notable figures including the President of Lithuania. This replica of the Lourdes Grotto commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Virgin Mary's apparition in Lourdes, France. It features a statue of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernadette, both originally sourced from France. Despite facing destruction during World War II and the Soviet era, local residents preserved the sculptures and revitalized the site in 1989. Today, the grotto serves as a focal point for town celebrations, educational events, and religious festivals, reflecting the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Kretinga.