The venerated 17th-century painting of the Virgin Mary was crowned with papal crowns in 1988 by Pope John Paul II.
The church was built during the era of classicism, specifically in 1825, using local pine timber.
It is the only church in the Kaišiadorys Diocese that possesses the title of a sanctuary specifically designated for the veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The altar structure is a prime example of late folk baroque woodcraft, characterized by intricate polychrome wood carvings.
The churchyard contains a historic stone wall and a 19th-century wooden belfry, both protected as cultural monuments.
Pivašiūnai Church is a prominent wooden sanctuary housing the miraculous painting of the Blessed Virgin Mary with the Child, which survived two previous church fires. The current building was constructed in 1825 and serves as the spiritual center of the Kaišiadorys Diocese. The interior features a rare Rococo-style high altar and significant 19th-century liturgical decor. The church is famous for the annual Žolinė (Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary) festival, which draws thousands of pilgrims each August. It is located on a hilltop, offering expansive views of the surrounding Dzūkija region landscape. The site is a registered object of the Lithuanian Cultural Heritage Registry.
From the churchyard gate looking upward toward the main entrance to capture the classic wooden facade.
Visit during the weekday to experience the peaceful atmosphere, as weekends are often crowded with pilgrims.
Walk the perimeter of the churchyard to view the historic wooden architecture and surrounding cemetery markers.
Respect the ongoing liturgical functions, as this is an active place of worship.
Taking flash photography during services or treating the interior as a museum rather than a functioning sanctuary.
The church hosts large-scale outdoor events and intensive programming during the week of August 15th.
Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees; maintain silence; remove headwear upon entering.
