This postcard from the 1920s is a reproduction of a painting by Václav Malý, a Czech artist. The picture depicts a romantic panorama of the High Tatras, with a cross in the foreground.
In the Middle Ages, roads and squares were "graced" with gallows and scaffolds rather than crucifixes. It wasn't until after the Trident Council (1545-1563), which declared the second half of the 16th century the "Century of Saints," that crucifixes, chapels and statues of saints started appearing alongside roads.
As walking was the most common form of transportation, people had ample opportunity to stop for a moment in prayer on their journey. People found comfort in the shrines, directing their prayers of thanks or supplication during war and outbreaks of disease.
A significant number of wayside shrines remain alongside roads throughout Slovakia, contributing to the unique atmosphere of the countryside. From simple columns to crosses to small chapels, roadside shrines were often paired with natural features, such as trees or at the top of a small hill, for a greater sense of beauty - and shade on a hot day.
This article was first published by The Slovak Spectator on June 16, 2008. It has been updated to be relevant today.
