VELIUONA MOUND COMPLEX

The Veliuona Hillforts form a complex of mounds preserving historical and archaeological heritage along the banks of the Nemunas River. The complex includes Veliuona Hillfort I, known as Gediminas' Grave, the adjacent Castle Hill (also called Hill of Peace), and Veliuona Hillfort II, located 2.7 km to the west, known as Pilaitės.

It is believed that the wooden castle of Junigėda (later known as Veliuona) once stood on the hillfort called Gediminas' Grave. The castle was frequently attacked and rebuilt during the 13th–14th centuries by the Teutonic Knights. According to legend, Grand Duke Gediminas may have died and been buried here, and a monument was erected in his honor in 1925.

Castle Hill is considered the forefield (or bailey) of the first hillfort, while the Teutonic Knights' castle Bayerburg stood in the area known as Pilaitės, later destroyed by Lithuanians.

Archaeological excavations in these sites have uncovered cultural layers with ceramic shards, weapons, and bronze brooches. The Veliuona Hillforts were a significant defensive site where battles and diplomatic meetings with the Order took place.

The complex also includes the earlier Antkalnė Hillfort to the north—dating back to the early 2nd millennium—also known as Giant’s Grave, Naujokai, or Gystėnai Hillfort.