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Akmenės Stone

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Akmenės Stone with Chapel is a nationally significant archaeological and geological monument, also known as the Chapel Stone. This impressive boulder (16.14 m in circumference) is shrouded in legends. In ancient times, a sacred fire was burned here, and the nearby Sandrava stream was believed to have healing properties. People thought the stone had miraculous powers—pressing their ailing body parts against it and praying for health.

In 1808, noblewoman Kontrimienė built a chapel with a statue of St. Elizabeth atop the stone. Over the years, it was restored multiple times, and in 2014, after a thorough renovation, the statue was returned to its place. Inside the chapel stands a beautifully carved figure of St. Elizabeth, crafted by woodcarver Jonas Dzviegas.

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Akmenės Stone with Chapel is a unique geological and archaeological monument of national significance, also known as the Chapel Stone. This massive boulder (4.6 m long, 4.48 m wide, 2.43 m high, with a circumference of 16.14 m) has long been surrounded by legends. It is said that a sacred fire was once burned atop it, and treasure hunters, believing in hidden riches beneath, chipped away a significant portion. The nearby Sandrava stream was considered miraculous—people used its water to heal ailments and cleanse wounds. In 1808, noblewoman Kontrimienė commissioned the

construction of a wooden chapel with a statue of St. Elizabeth atop the stone, later adorned with additional saintly figures. Until the mid-20th century, people gathered here to pray, make offerings, and take vows. The chapel underwent several restorations, with a major renovation at the Šiauliai "Aušra" Museum Restoration Center in 2013–2014. On August 9, 2014, it was ceremoniously returned to its place and re-consecrated by Archbishop Sigitas Tamkevičius. Today, the chapel houses a beautifully carved statue of St. Elizabeth, crafted by woodcarver Jonas Dzviegas.

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