The people’s architecture. Roadsides shrines are little gems to stumble across when exploring a new country. Steeped in local culture and beliefs these dedications are sources of expression for locals and can be educational for visitors. The shrines are unique architectural elements, with people often placing their own contributions to the site as they pay homage. Despite obvious differences, these dedicated spots depict just how united people around the globe truly are as they commemorate cherished beliefs.

ITALY

Madonnelle’s are found along many streets in Rome. These charming Marian devotions reflect the predominantly Catholic beliefs interlaced with an element of superstition.. would you expect anything less in Italy? Centuries ago pagans feared unrest souls who rose from these intersections at night to haunt the living. Today Italians believe the Madonna provides protection to passersby as she overlooks the street and street crossings.

JAPAN

Japan is unique in that it’s perception of aging and the elderly differs from most youth-obsessed Western societies. Cherishing life at all stages is integral to the beliefs of many Japanese. These values also extend to unborn babies, either lost to miscarriage, abortion, or born stillborn. Mizuko kuyō shrines, literally meaning “water child memorial”, can be found at crossroads or along riverbeds. These shrines are made of Jizo statues often wearing red bibs and knitted hats. In Japanese Buddhism the Jizo divinity is believed to protect children who have died before their parents.

INDIA

Hinduism is a dominate faith in India. Streets are decorated with shrines of devotion to the myriad of gods and goddesses. Some of the most popular gods displayed are the Trimurti deities: Brahma (the Creator), Vishnu (the Preserver), and Shiva (the Destroyer). Brahma is depicted with several faces, as seen in the image above. Vishnu’s skin is colored blue in images. And finally, Shiva is often shown holding a trident in one hand.

HAWAII

The sea is the source of life for Hawaiians. Despite being part of the US, Hawaiian culture stands apart from many American traditions. Which is why it appears independent from the USA on this list. Islanders have an immense respect for their homeland and still honor many traditions passed down from their ancestors. For fishermen, it was custom to present an offering to the god Ku’ula in hopes of returning with nets full of fish.

GREECE

The Greeks have a long standing tradition of erecting memorials for loved ones killed in road accidents. Unfortunately auto accidents are very common throughout Greece. These shrines resemble an Orthodox church and typically house a candle, image of the deceased, and statues of saints.

THAILAND

Thailand’s Phra Nang Beach is host to the popular phallus-filled cave. Yes although on the beach, let’s count this as a wayside shrine given the necessity of longtail boats to travel in this region. Conflicting accounts as to the meaning of the shrine range from fertility offerings to fishermen seeking protection while at sea from the goddess spirit harbored in the cave.

ARGENTINA

Guachito Gil is an Argentinian folk saint much revered by those seeking his protection from harm. Legend has it Guachito Gil, a Robin Hood type figure, had miraculous healing powers and avoided death himself on many occasions. One time Guachito Gil was not so lucky. About to be killed, Guachito warned his murderer that the man’s son will soon be found deathly ill. Guachito promised to cure his son if his soon-to-be killer prayed to him for intercession. The killer laughed and killed Guachito. No sooner had he done so did the revelation come true. The murderer, desperate to save his son, prayed to Guachito Gil and he was miraculously healed. In thanksgiving the man set up a red shrine in dedication to Guachito and spread the news. Today red roadside shrines with his image are still seen by those who’s prayers were answered by the folk saint.

SLOVENIA

Slovenia has a myriad of religious shrines, typically Catholic in ideology. These shrines are unique in that many are closed off behind a door or other barrier. Offerings are still made by the faithful on the outside but the icon s enclosed and protected.

UNITED STATES

Like most cultures, Americans come together to mourn the tragic passing of loved ones and those who greatly influenced our lives. By setting up spontaneous memorials at the site of their death or place closely associated with their life, mourners pay their respects and share memories of their legacy. The tragic passing of Kobe Bryant exemplifies this on a scale of undeniable magnitude. In LA fans set up shrines and murals all over the city honoring the icon’s legacy, a true testament to his impact on millions of people.

Wayside shrines are tangible reflections of societies’ cultural beliefs and values. These unique architectural elements are designed by the people and for the people, some makeshift in design and others meticulously crafted structures. What shrines have you come across on your travels? I’d love to hear from you, let me know in the comments below.