Salų Šv. Kryžiaus bažnyčia

Salos Holy Cross Church, in the small town of Salos, is a distinctive cultural and historical monument in Rokiškis district. Situated on an island in Lake Dviragis, this church not only reflects the spirit of the area but also tells an interesting story of its own.

The first chapel in Salos is recorded as early as 1771, when the manor was held by Kristupas Morikonis. Later, in 1781, Ignotas Morikonis built a new wooden chapel, which became an integral part of the manor. From 1792 onward, birth registers began to be kept here, which shows that this place had long been important to the local community.

In 1859 the church was described as an old wooden building, thatched with straw and having two altars. Over time it was repaired and extended several times. Significant changes took place in 1867, when two sacristies were added, the organ was repaired and bells were hung. In the same year, work began on the present church, to a design by the architect Georg Werner, under the care of Fr Kušleika, and the building work was actively supported by Countess Marija Tyzenhauzaitė Pšezdzieckienė. Two bells were hung in the church tower, and the altars were fitted out in 1889–1901.

In 1908 a small library was set up in the parish, which helped spread knowledge and culture among the local people. Sadly, during the First World War the church suffered damage — the walls and vaults were damaged and the upper turrets were pulled down. In 1923 the church was re-roofed, and in 1939 it was substantially repaired. After the Second World War, the parish priest Petras Nykštas continued the repair work. In 1975 the churchyard's masonry wall with its wooden gate was repaired, and the parish priest Jonas Morkvėnas built the presbytery.

Architecturally, Salos Holy Cross Church is a Gothic Revival building of cruciform plan, with one main tower and several smaller turrets. The church has three naves, and in the central nave stands the Gothic-style high altar. The churchyard wall, of stone masonry, adds a further sense of historical significance.

Today Salos Holy Cross Church is a site of cultural as well as religious significance, drawing visitors with its rich history and architectural beauty.