Mirila

Mirila (in local dialect "measurments") are traditional memorials that can be seen on the Velebit mountain, Croatia. They were made by the locals between the 17th and 20th century. People living in small mountain villages had to carry their deceased to the cemetery which was often located quite far away. Half way to the cemetery there was place where they were allowed to stop and relax bit.

When they put the body on the ground they marked it with two stones. One was placed against the head and the other one in front of the feet. Soon after people put some flat stones between them. On the head stone a low relief was carved. People believed that the soul of deceased stayed there and the cemetery only kept the body remains. That is why later people used to bring flowers and prayed there. In 2007 Croatian Ministry of Culture protected mirila as part of cultural heritage.