Experiences of Pilgrimage in Lithuania: Expressions of Values and Identity at New Destinations

Abstract

This article looks at destination places and the extent of religious and secular pilgrimages in Lithuanian society. Destination image of a particular place is unique, as it is constructed from travellers own values, identity, memories, associations and imaginations of the place. The focus is on the phenomenology of destination image and expression of values and identity during valuistic journeys (pilgrimage). Values can embody religious, national, cultural or other collective ideals, or they may be unique to the individual. The article discusses destination places in Lithuania and investigates the main groups of geographical destinations that give meaning to the identity of Lithuanian pilgrims and are visited by them.