The Ginučiai hillfort is a complex of two hillforts located in the Ignalina district, situated between the Linkmena and Ūkoja lakes. The site is characterized by fortified eastern and western slopes, while the northern and southern sides remain steep. Today, these archaeological remains are densely covered by forest.
Historical records and archaeological finds provide a window into the site's past. Excavations have uncovered pottery shards and coins dating from the 9th to 10th centuries. It is believed that a wooden castle stood here between the 9th and 12th centuries, and according to chronicles from 1373, the fortress was destroyed during a march into Northeastern Lithuania. It is suggested that the castle was ruled by Linkmenas, who is mentioned in chronicles as Lengvenis.
In more modern times, the hillfort became a site of cultural significance. In 1934, a tree was planted on the summit of one of the hillforts to mark the 60th birthday of Antanas Smetona. The tree was cut down in 1956, and a memorial stone placed nearby in 1937 was removed in 1962. Because the hillfort is a part of cultural heritage, excavations and the replanting of trees are not permitted.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nicolo Ciampini
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