Pakrojas Manor stuns again with giant ornaments made from 80 tonnes of vegetables and fruit

Pakrojas Manor in Lithuania, known in spring and summer for its abundant flower displays, has transformed this autumn into a showcase of giant vegetable and fruit ornaments. Starting October 3, the manor hosts the 'Baroque Autumn' art festival every weekend, using more than 80 tonnes of vegetables and fruit grown in the region.

The concept and creative process

The festival draws on one theory of the word 'baroque' originating from the Portuguese barroco, meaning an irregularly shaped pearl. In the festival, every vegetable becomes such a pearl, and thousands of them combine to form grand ornamental patterns. According to festival concept creator Kristina Ivančenko, the aim was to view autumn not merely as harvest time but as an unusually rich source of creative material.

Each ornament is first designed on a computer screen, then scaled up to match the manor's vast garden without losing any of its lines. The ornaments are created by the manor's gardeners in an extremely precise process requiring great patience and concentration. A drone monitors the entire process from above, revealing even the smallest element that strays from the intended pattern, so symmetry is adjusted continuously until the ornament nears perfection.

Additional activities

Alongside the giant ornaments, the manor grounds feature harvest fruit arches and sculptures, a lively baroque-era fair, and family-oriented experiences. Changeable autumn weather won't spoil the visit, since much of the programme takes place indoors. Visitors can explore the manor's craft workshops, meeting a beekeeper and a wool felter, have their portrait taken in an old-fashioned photograph, or visit the Panopticon. Those seeking a scare can tour the Punishment Cellar, while the curious can explore the historic spirit distillery. A separate room offers younger visitors games and creative activities themed around the baroque era. After a stroll, guests can warm up in the manor kitchen, filled with the scent of pumpkin and cinnamon, along with hot drinks.