Category: Religious Destinations

Category: Religious Destinations

Sanctuary of the Holy Cross Wood Relic

Holy Cross Wood Relic – Updated 16 January 2023.

Holy Cross Wood Relic

The Sanctuary of the Holy Cross Wood Relic, also known as the Sanctuary of the Holy Cross, is a religious site located in Kielce, Poland. It is home to a relic of the True Cross, which is a piece of wood said to be from the cross upon which Jesus was crucified. The relic was brought to Kielce in the 12th century by the bishop of Krakow, Iwo Odrowąż.

The sanctuary is a popular pilgrimage site, and it is visited by thousands of people each year. The Sanctuary of the Holy Cross is also home to a church, which was built in the 18th century, and the church features a unique baroque architecture. The relic of the True Cross is kept in the main altar of the church. There is also a museum on the site, which provides information about the history of the relic and the sanctuary.

Healing powers

The Sanctuary of the Holy Cross Wood Relic is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Poland, and it is also a significant historical and cultural landmark in the region. The relic is believed to have healing powers, and it is said to be particularly effective in the treatment of eye diseases, and the Sanctuary is also visited by people seeking spiritual healing.

The Sanctuary of the Holy Cross Wood Relic is open to visitors all year round, and it can be accessed by foot or by car. Guided tours of the sanctuary and its museum are also available.

Święty Krzyż mountain

The Sanctuary of the Holy Cross Wood Relic and Museum of the Missionary Oblates of the Virgin Mary are located on Łysiec mountain, nowadays referred to as Święty Krzyż mountain.

Witchcraft and hellish parties

Święty Krzyż (Mount Holy Cross) is the second highest mountain in the region at 595m. If you believe local folk legend, the mountain was especially liked by witches and during their Sabbaths, they practised witchcraft and organised hellish parties and dances on the summit.

Pilgrims

Every year, the Holy Cross Sanctuary is visited by crowds of pilgrims, visitors and tourists, who want to see this unique place. In the church on the mountain you can see a valuable painting of Franciszek Smuglewicz, monastery porches, a sacristy, the Oleśnicki family’s chapel and the Museum of the Missionary Oblates of the Virgin Mary.

500 million years old

The Świętokrzyskie Mountains are not particularly high; however they are ancient. Quartzite has been discovered in the area that is 500 million years old. The highest peak is Mount Łysica at 614 m and is located within the Świętokrzyski National Park.

Holy Cross Province (Swietokrzyskie) is located in south eastern Poland and has the city of Kielce as its regional capital. Often referred to as, “The heart of Poland.”

Kielce

With a history dating back over 900 years, Kielce was once an important mining centre, today, the city and its surroundings are better known for their historic architecture, green spaces and recreational areas like the Świętokrzyski National Park and the Kadzielnia Reserve. Kielce is the only city in Europe which counts five nature reserves within its borders.

Attractions

There’s a lot of attractions to see in Kielce. The former Palace of the Kraków Bishops, the picturesque National Museum, Kielce Cathedral, and Dworek Laszczyków are must-sees.

Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska

Wooden churches

Wooden churches – updated 10 January 2023.

The Wooden Churches of Southern Małopolska inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list are located in: Binarowa (ca 1500), Blizne (mid-15th century.), Dębno (1335), Haczów (14th/15th century), Lipnica Murowana (end of 15th century) and Sękowa (1520). They were built using the horizontal log technique and represent outstanding examples of the different aspects of medieval church-building traditions in Roman Catholic culture.

Wooden churches - All Saints Church, Blizne

These old wooden Gothic churches were all located within the historic region of Małopolska in southern and south-eastern Poland and were sponsored by families of nobility as symbols of their prestige.

Horizontal Log Technique

The horizontal log technique was commonplace in Northern and Eastern Europe during the Middle Ages. The wooden church style of the region was Gothic ornament and painted detail and was very different to the style of stone and brick buildings at the time due to the timber construction, structure and form of the churches.

The form of the churches was influenced by the Greco-Catholic and Orthodox presence in the region. They had an extensive spatial structure initially consisting of a rectangular nave and a narrower chancel to the east, usually terminating in a three-sided apse. Chambered towers of post-and-beam construction were added at the west end later on.

Advanced joinery

The standard of joinery was of the highest quality and the use of advanced joinery solutions allowed for a system of roof trusses binding the log structures of the nave and chancel resulting in tall, shingled roofs.

The Wooden Churches of Southern Małopolska all exhibit diverse techniques and styles of workmanship, rich iconography, outstanding artistic quality and boast valuable décors and fittings.

The oldest church is the 15th century church in Haczów, made of fir-wood and covered with shingles.

The church at Binarowa boasts a very precious wall painting depicting scenes from the New Testament and a carved wood figure of Madonna from the 14th century.

The majority of the wooden churches are located in picturesque mountain valleys and the six trails on the Route of Timber Architecture in the Małopolska region are over 1500km long. They feature 232 timber constructions including 123 Roman Catholic churches, 39 Orthodox churches, 25 rural and small-town complexes, and 27 rural architecture museums that comprise 9 skansens and 14 country manors.

FAQ

Q: What are the Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska?

A: The Wooden Churches are a group of 15 medieval churches that are located in the southern part of the Malopolska region of Poland. They are characterized by their unique wooden architecture and are considered to be some of the most valuable examples of medieval wooden church architecture in Europe. These churches were built by local communities in the 16th and 17th century, and are notable for their intricate and ornate design, as well as for their historical and cultural significance.

Q: What are the characteristics of these Wooden Churches?

A: These churches are characterized by their wooden structure and the ornate decorations on their exteriors and interiors. Many of them have tall spires, multiple towers, and richly decorated facades. They are usually painted in bright colors and adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting scenes from the Bible or local folklore. The interiors are usually decorated with biblical scenes and religious motifs, often painted in a vivid colors. The technical characteristics of these churches also make them interesting, many of them were built using the technique of log construction, but others were built using wooden frame construction, and they offer a great example of how these ancient techniques were used.

Q: How can I visit the Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska?

A: The churches are open to visitors and can be visited during the daytime. The opening hours of the churches vary, so it is best to check the information on the official website or contact the church directly for more information. Some of the churches are located in remote areas and are difficult to reach by public transportation, so it is recommended to have your own means of transportation, or to consider joining a guided tour.

Q: Are there any guided tours available?

A: Yes, there are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska. These tours typically include visits to several of the churches, and provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history, architecture and cultural significance of the churches. Some tours also include other nearby attractions, such as castles and historical towns, which can give visitors a more comprehensive understanding of the region’s culture and history.

Q: Are there any other nearby attractions?

A: Yes, there are several other notable attractions in the southern Malopolska region, including:

  • The Castle of Sandomierz, which is a medieval castle that is located in the town of Sandomierz.
  • The Sanctuary of Divine Mercy, which is a modern pilgrimage site that is located in the town of Krakow-Lagiewniki.
  • The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, which is a beautiful baroque pilgrimage site that is located in the town of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska
  • The Eagle Nests Trail, a beautiful hiking trail that runs through the region, passing by several castles and offering panoramic views of the countryside
  • The Salt Mine in Wieliczka, one of the most visited site in the region, a unique subterranean complex with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.

Wooden Churches Tour

Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska

What to expect from this tour

Highlights

  • Discover 4 UNESCO-listed wooden churches on a guided tour
  • Learn about the historical and cultural significance of these Gothic churches
  • Drive through villages of Lesser Poland and take in the Polish landscape

Description

Learn about the gems of Polish wooden architecture outside of Kraków. Visit several villages to see the collection of Gothic wooden churches designated UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Your guide/driver will pick you up at 8:00 AM from your accommodation in Kraków. The first town you will visit is Lipnica Murowana to see St. Leonard’s Church, which was built at the end of 15th century. This is 1 of 6 churches designated a UNESCO Wooden Church of Southern Lesser Poland.

Continue on to see 2 more churches on this UNESCO list, starting with St. Michael Archangel’s Church in Binarowa. This church, completed in 1500, features one of the most valuable appearances of late Gothic architecture in Poland. The third stop on the route is the village of Sękowa. See another example of Gothic wooden architecture at Saints Philip and James Church, built around 1520. This church is often named the “Pearl of Beskid Niski” due to its unique architecture.

Finally, head to Owczary, the last stop on the tour, where the Orthodox Protection of Our Most Holy Lady Church is located. Erected in the middle of the 17th century, this is one of the oldest Lemko churches and is listed on another UNESCO list: Wooden Tserkvas of the Carpathian Region in Poland and Ukraine. After touring these 4 remarkable, historical churches, return to Kraków where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.

Includes

  • Entrance fees
  • Driver/Guide
  • Pickup and drop-off
  • Transport by air-conditioned minibus

Wooden Tserkvas Of The Carpathian Region

Wooden Tserkvas

Wooden Tserkvas – updated 09 January 2023.

The tserkvas Of The Carpathian Region were built between the 16th and 19th centuries by communities of Orthodox and Greek Catholic faiths. Sixteen tserkvas (churches) are listed by UNESCO of which eight are located in Poland and eight are located in Ukraine.

Wooden Tserkvas - St Michael the Archangel in Smolnik

Complex structures

The tserkvas were built of horizontal logs and were complex structures constructed using distinct building traditions rooted in Orthodox ecclesiastic design interwoven with elements of local tradition. The wooden tserkvas were built on a tri-partite plan surmounted by open quadrilateral or octagonal domes and cupolas with wooden bell towers on the outside and iconostases and polychrome decorations in the inside.

Outside, they had churchyards, gatehouses and graveyards bounded by perimeter walls or fences and gates, often surrounded by trees.

Carpentry skills

Exceptional carpentry skills were required to construct the tserkvas particularly for the complex corner jointing that was required. The tserkvas were raised on wooden sills placed on stone foundations, with wooden shingles covering roofs and walls.

Wooden Tserkvas - St Michael the Archangel in Turzańsk

Poland

The tserkvas in Poland are the Tserkva of St Parascheva in Radruż, the Tserkva of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Chotyniec, the Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Smolnik, the Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Turzańsk (Podkarpackie Voivodeship), the Tserkva of St James the Less in Powroźnik, the Tserkva of the Virgin Mary’s Care in Owczary, the Tserkva of St Parascheva in Kwiatoń and the Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Brunary Wyżne (Małpolskie Voivodeship).

The 16 churches can be divided into four groups of different ethnographic architectural traditions.

The Tserkvas of the Carpathian Region in Poland and Ukraine were included on the World Heritage List in 2013 during the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee in Phnom Penh (dec. 37 COM 8B.37).

Buildings are available to visitors. The tserkvas in Radruz, Rohatyn and Drohobych are currently used as museums.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the wooden tserkvas (churches) of the Carpathian region:

Where are the tserkvas of the Carpathian region located?
The tserkvas are located in the Carpathian Mountains of Eastern Europe. They can be found in countries such as Poland, Ukraine, and Slovakia.

What is the history of the tserkvas?
The tserkvas have a long history dating back to the medieval period. They were built by the Eastern Orthodox and Greek Catholic communities of the region, and they were an important cultural and spiritual center for these communities. Many of the tserkvas are now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their architectural and historical significance.

Are the tserkvas of the Carpathian region open to the public?
Yes, many of the tserkvas are open to the public. Some are still used as places of worship, while others have been converted into museums or cultural centers.

Is there a cost to visit the wooden tserkvas?
There may be a fee to visit some of the tserkvas. The cost of admission varies depending on the specific tserkva and the type of tour or visit you choose.

Are there guided tours of the wooden tserkvas of the Carpathian region?
Yes, guided tours of the wooden tserkvas are available for visitors. The tours are typically offered in the local language, but English-language tours may also be available upon request.

Are the wooden tserkvas of the Carpathian region wheelchair accessible?
The accessibility of the tserkvas can vary. Some of the tserkvas may have stairs or other barriers that make them difficult to access for people with mobility impairments. It is recommended to contact the specific tserkva you plan to visit in advance to inquire about accessibility details.

Churches Of Peace in Jawor and Swidnica

Churches Of Peace

Churches Of Peace – updated 10 January 2023.

The Churches of Peace in Jawor and Swidnica, were built in the former Silesia in the mid-17th century. They were named after the Peace of Westphalia, which was the name given to two peace treaties signed in October 1648 that resulted in the end of the Thirty Years War bringing peace to the Holy Roman Empire and closing a calamitous period of European history that killed approximately eight million people.

Churches Of Peace

The peace treaties effectively eradicated the Evangelical Church in the region depriving the Evangelical majority of the population any religious freedom and all of their churches.

After diplomatic intervention by Sweden, permission was granted to build three churches outside the city walls; however, this permission came with strict physical and political constraints. The Lutherans of Silesia were allowed to build three churches from wood, clay and straw without steeples and church bells with a construction deadline of just one year.

Churches Of Peace

Albrecht von Säbisch

The project was handed to architect and engineer Albrecht von Säbisch who had the difficult task of meeting the requirements of the large Evangelical community whilst also adhering to the caveats imposed on the construction of the churches.

The architect created a set of buildings that represented the pinnacle of timber-framing construction technology and architectural solutions. The Churches of Peace are the largest timber-framed Baroque ecclesiastical buildings in Europe and were built to a scale and complexity unknown in European wooden architecture before or since.

Churches Of Peace

Albrecht von Säbisch used traditional materials and technologies and despite the impermanence of the materials used, the building survived for hundreds of years.

Jawor

The Church of the Holy Spirit in Jawor was built in 1654–1655 as a rectangular three-aisled basilica with a three-sided chancel of reduced form.

Świdnica

The Church of the Holy Trinity in Świdnica was built in 1656–1657 as a three-aisled basilica with a Greek cross ground plan. The third of the Churches of Peace allowed under the Peace of Westphalia was built in Głogów in 1652 but burned down a hundred years later. Since 2001, the two remaining churches are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

FAQ

Here are some common questions and answers that you might find helpful:

Q: Where are the Churches of Peace located?
A: The two Churches of Peace (Jaworska and Świdnicka) are located in the Lower Silesia region of Poland, in the towns of Jawor and Świdnica, respectively. Both are located in southwestern Poland.

Q: When were the Churches of Peace built?
A: The Church of Peace in Jawor was built between 1655 and 1657, while the Church of Peace in Świdnica was built between 1657 and 1666.

Q: What is the history of the Churches of Peace?
A: The Churches of Peace were built as part of the Treaty of Westphalia, which brought an end to the 30 Years War (1618-1648) in Europe. The treaty granted the Protestants of Silesia the right to build three wooden churches, as a counterbalance to the Catholic churches in the region. The Jawor and Świdnica churches are two of the three that were built. They are some of the largest wooden religious buildings in Europe and are considered architectural and engineering masterpieces of their time.

Q: What can I see on a visit to the Churches of Peace?
A: Visitors can explore the interior of the churches and admire the intricate woodwork and the beautiful frescoes and paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings. You can also see the organ, pulpit, and altar.

Q: Are the Churches of Peace open to visitors?
A: Yes, both churches are open to visitors, but please check the official website for current opening hours and potential restrictions.

Q: How long does a visit to the Churches of Peace last?
A: A visit to the Churches of Peace can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much you want to explore and learn.

Q: Are there any special requirements to visit the Churches of Peace?
A: There are no special requirements to visit the Churches of Peace, but visitors should be aware that photography inside the churches is not allowed.

Q: Are there any other things to do in the area?
A: Both Jawor and Świdnica are historic towns with charming old town squares and many other interesting buildings, monuments, and museums to visit. The area is also great for hiking and biking. The region is also famous for its culture of glass making and it is worth visiting some of the glassworks and museums to learn more about it.

Recommended Tour

Centennial Hall

What to expect from this tour

Highlights

  • Observe the production process of Boleslawiec pottery and visit the factory store
  • Learn about how the pottery is decorated by hand
  • See the majestic wooden Church of Peace in Jawor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Description

The first recorded history about pottery activities in the Bolesławiec region date back to the end of the 14th century. Since then, the region became know as a very important area of pottery production. Visit one of the best local manufacturers observing the skilled workers at the different stages of production.

Especially spectacular is the decoration, all of which is done by hand with special stamps with the emblematic pattern called peacock's eye. Afterwards, there is some time for shopping before heading to the next stop, a local restaurant for lunch.

On the way back you will have a chance to see one of the biggest wooden churches in Europe. The outstanding Church of Peace in Jawor was built during the socio-political context of the 17th century during the religious wars and persecution of the Protestants. It was constructed under very strict regulations and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Includes

  • Entrance and visit to Bolesiawiec Manufature
    Entrance to the Church of Peace in Jawor

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Updated 09 January 2023.

The Wieliczka salt mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site located around 14km southeast of Kraków and is one of Poland’s most popular attractions, welcoming tourists since 1722.

Wieliczka

Going underground

Wieliczka is a subterranean labyrinth of tunnels, shafts and chambers, underground saline lakes, chapels with altarpieces, majestic timber constructions and unique statues sculpted in rock salt. The size of the mine is staggering, it reaches a depth of 327m and extends via horizontal passages and chambers for over 287 km distributed over nine levels. Only a small part of the mine is open to the public.

Wieliczka Salt Mine Sculptures

The oldest sculptures were carved out of rock salt by miners; more recent figures have been fashioned by contemporary artists. Even the crystals of the chandeliers are made from rock salt that has been dissolved and reconstituted to achieve a clear, glass-like appearance. The rock salt is naturally grey in various shades, so that the carvings resemble unpolished granite rather than the white or crystalline look that many visitors expect. The carvings may appear white in the photos, but the actual carved figures are not white.

Chapel of St Kinga

The highlight of the mine is a vast chamber housing the ornamented Chapel of St Kinga. Everything that you will see within the chamber is made from salt including altarpieces and chandeliers. It took over 30 years for three sculptors to complete this underground temple, and about 20,000 tonnes of rock salt had to be removed. The rock salt in the mine resembles unpolished granite and its natural colour is grey, not white as many people might expect.

Salt Mine

The older sculptures have been supplemented with new carvings made by contemporary artists.

Working mine

Historically, Wieliczka was a working mine; however due to falling salt prices and flooding, commercial salt mining was discontinued. The mine has produced salt since the 13th century and was one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Salt Lake

Other highlights are the Salt Lake in the Erazm Barącz Chamber, whose water is denser than the Dead Sea, and the awe-inspiring 36m-high Stanisław Staszic Chamber.

If you’re worried about the air quality down there, great news: the mine’s special microclimate actually has a beneficial effect on asthma sufferers and those with allergies!

UNESCO World Heritage Site

378 steps

To get down to the 64-metre level of the mine, visitors must descend a wooden stairway of 378 steps. After the 3km tour of the mine’s corridors, chapels, statues and lake, 135 metres underground, visitors take an elevator back up to the surface. The elevator holds 36 persons (nine per car) and takes some 30 seconds to reach the surface.

Getting there

Getting to the Wieliczka Salt Mines from Krakow shouldn’t prove too difficult or expensive. Regular buses run from the top of Starowislna Street opposite the Main Post Office, taking around forty minutes to get there. Be warned that buses are a little cramped and we advise you check departure details at one of Krakow’s tourist information offices as these routes chop and change quite a bit. You’re best asking a friendly Pole where to get off too, as this is a public bus not a tourist service.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland:

Where is the Salt Mine located?
The Salt Mine is located in the town of Wieliczka, which is about 15 km (9 miles) southwest of Krakow, Poland.

What is the history of the Salt Mine?
The Wieliczka Salt Mine has a long history dating back to the 13th century. It was one of the first salt mines in Europe to be converted into a tourist attraction, and it has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century. The mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been recognized as one of the most valuable cultural and natural assets in Poland.

Is the Salt Mine open to the public?
Yes, the mine is open to the public. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Poland, and it attracts over 1 million visitors each year.

Is there a cost to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine?
Yes, there is a fee for visitors to enter the Salt Mine. The cost of admission varies depending on the type of tour you choose and the time of year you visit.

Are there guided tours of the Wieliczka Salt Mine?
Yes, guided tours of the Salt Mine are available for visitors. The tours are offered in a variety of languages, including English, and they take visitors through the underground tunnels and chambers of the mine.

Is the Wieliczka Salt Mine wheelchair accessible?
The mine is partially wheelchair accessible. Some areas of the mine are only accessible by stairs, but there are also some areas that can be accessed by elevator. It is recommended to contact the mine in advance to inquire about specific accessibility details.

Wieliczka Salt Mine Tours & Experiences

Niepokalanów

Our Mary Immaculate and Saint Maximilian Kolbe

Niepokalanów – updated 12 January 2023.

Niepokalanów is a small town in Poland, located in the Masovian Voivodeship (province) in central Poland. It is most notable for being the site of a Franciscan monastery, the Monastery of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which was founded by Saint Maximilian Kolbe in 1927.

Niepokalanów

Maximillian Kolbe

The shrine is one of the newest in Poland but also one of the most popular, primarily due to the cult following of Saint Maximillian who was canonised in 1982.

Saint Maximilian Kolbe was a Polish Catholic priest and martyr who founded the monastery as a place for the Franciscan friars to live and work. The monastery quickly grew and became a major center of religious and cultural activity in Poland, attracting thousands of visitors and pilgrims each year.

The Monastery of the Immaculate Conception is one of the largest monasteries in the world, and includes a church, a seminary, a printing press, a farm, and a radio station. The monastery is famous for its beautiful architecture, including the church which is a mix of Baroque, Gothic and Romanesque styles.

The monastery also has a museum dedicated to the life and work of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, which includes artifacts, photographs, and documents related to his life and ministry.

Niepokalanów is considered as a pilgrimage destination and attracts many visitors, both Catholics and non-Catholics, who come to visit the monastery and learn about the life and legacy of Saint Maximilian Kolbe.

The Knight of the Immaculate

Prior to the Second World War, Niepokalanów was the largest monastery in the world, housing as many as 760 men. It contained a printing house producing many publications. One of these publications was called, ‘The Knight of the Immaculate’ and had a press run of 750,000 copies a month.

Auschwitz-Birkenau

During the Second World War, Maximillian Kolbe was sent to Auschwitz-Birkenau for the crime of hiding Jews from the Nazis. He died in the camp, giving his life for the life of another prisoner and it was this act of heroism, which fuelled the cult of St. Maximillian to become widespread at the end of the war.

Pope John Paul II

After the war the printing house in Niepokalanów was reopened and The Knight of the Immaculate was issued again. A new church was built between 1948-1954 and this and the monastery were visited by Pope John Paul II during his second Pastoral Visit in Poland on 18th of June 1983. The visit of the Pope made Niepokalanów famous not only in Poland, but also abroad.

700,000 pilgrims – Niepokalanów

Today over 700,000 pilgrims per year come to Niepokalanów, to visit the Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary and also the monastic cell of St. Maximilian. They also come to see the Panorama Theatre, which commemorates 1,000 years of Christianity in Poland and highlights the most important events in the history of the church in Poland.

Visit the Niepokalanów website.

Religious Tours

Wadowice

What to expect from this tour

This fascinating tour with a religious context will start from the pick-up from your accommodation in Krakow. At first, you will go to Wadowice, the hometown of The Holy Father John Paul II. Follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest Poles in history.

You will see the secondary school which young Karol Wojtyła attended. Then you will go to the Main Market Square named after John Paul II and visit the parish church. You will admire numerous paintings, chapels and famous baptismal font where future Pope had been baptized. Finally, you will participate in a guided tour at the Family Home Museum of John Paul II available in various languages.

From Wadowice you will go directly to Częstochowa often called the spiritual capital of Poland. Marvel the beauty and mystical atmosphere of Jasna Góra, the famous Polish shrine to the Virgin Mary and one of Poland’s most visited pilgrimage sites. Upon arrival enjoy your time having a lunch break at your own expense. Start your tour at The Monastery guided by venerable Pauline’s Monk. In the end, you will admire the miraculous painting of The Black Madonna of Częstochowa.

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Zebrzydowska

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska – Updated 10 January 2023.

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is a town in southern Poland, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. It is known for its UNESCO-listed pilgrimage site, the Sanctuary of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, which is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Poland.

42 chapels and churches

The Sanctuary consists of a complex of 42 chapels and churches, as well as other religious buildings and monuments, that are arranged in a manner that mimics the layout of Jerusalem. The site is also known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and artwork, as well as its picturesque setting in the Beskids Mountains.

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Pilgrimage site

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is Poland’s second most important pilgrimage site after Jasna Góra in Częstochowa and owes its existence to the squire of Kraków at the time, Mikołaj Zebrzydowski. Each year, thousands of pilgrims visit Kalwaria Zebrzydowska to participate in religious ceremonies and to walk the Stations of the Cross.

Polish Jerusalem

The story is that Mikołaj’s wife had a vision of three burning crosses on the very hill the park is now located upon. Seeing this as a heavenly message, Mikołaj commissioned the construction of a calvary modelled on the 1584 map of Jerusalem by Christian Kruik van Adrichem. Today the calvary is known as the ‘Polish Jerusalem’.

UNESCO

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska was established in 1600. By 1617, twenty-four chapels had been built over the surrounding hills with many replicating the look of chapels in Jerusalem. As the place attracted growing numbers of pilgrims, more chapels were erected, eventually totalling 42. Today, over a million pilgrims visit this devotional complex every year. In 1999 Kalwaria Zebrzydowska was added to Unesco’s list of World Heritage sites.

The site is also one of Poland’s official national Historic Monuments, as designated November 17, 2000, and tracked by the National Heritage Board of Poland.

Baroque St. Mary’s Basilica

The crowning glory of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is the marvellous Baroque St. Mary’s Basilica, the first building to be constructed and the work of Giovanni Maria Bernardoni and Paolo Baudarth.

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Calvary Park

Calvary Park consists of 42 chapels modelled and named after places in Jerusalem and Holy Land. There are two main paths, one devoted to Jesus Christ and the other one devoted to Holy Mary. The first has 24 chapels, the second 11 chapels, the rest are common to both of them.

Pope John Paul II made several visits to Kalwaria Zebrzydowska on the pilgrimages he made to his homeland Poland.

FAQ

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is a town in southern Poland that is famous for its Calvary complex, which is a series of chapels and other religious buildings that are arranged in the shape of a cross. Here are some frequently asked questions about Kalwaria Zebrzydowska:

Q: What is the significance of the Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Calvary complex?

A: The complex is an important pilgrimage site for Catholics, and it is said to have been founded in the 17th century by a local priest named Andrzej Mielecki. The complex is a replica of the biblical city of Jerusalem, and it features a series of chapels that depict the final days of Jesus Christ’s life. Visitors to the complex can follow the Way of the Cross, which is a series of stations that commemorate the events of Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection.

Q: How many chapels are there in the Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Calvary complex?

A: There are 42 chapels in the Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Calvary complex, each of which depicts a different scene from the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Q: Is Kalwaria Zebrzydowska a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

A: Yes, Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it was added to the UNESCO list in 1999.

Q: Is it only open to Catholics or can people of other religions visit as well?

A: The Calvary complex is open to visitors of all religions, and it is a popular tourist destination for people of all backgrounds who are interested in history, architecture, and culture.

Q: What is the best time to visit Kalwaria Zebrzydowska?

A: The best time to visit Kalwaria Zebrzydowska would depend on your personal preferences. In summertime it can be quite hot and crowded, but the greenery surrounding the chapels is at its most lush. If you prefer to see chapels in wintertime or less crowded, you may want to visit in the shoulder or off-peak season. Some people also consider visiting Kalwaria Zebrzydowska during religious festivals like Easter, when special ceremonies and processions are held at the Calvary complex.

Visit the official Kalwaria Zebrzydowska website.

Religious Tours

Wadowice

What to expect from this tour

Highlights

  • Explore both the Jasna Góra Monastery and the Family Home Museum of John Paul II
  • Admire the miraculous painting of the Black Madonna of Częstochowa
  • Marvel at the parish church in Wadowice where the future Pope John Paul II was baptized
  • Enjoy included hotel pickup and drop-off in Krakow

Description

Begin your tour with pickup at your hotel in Kraków, then travel in an air-conditioned van for approximately 1 hour to Wadowice, the hometown of Pope John Paul II. Upon arrival, have a short break before going to the parish church on Main Market Square where the future pope was baptized. Marvel at numerous chapels, holy paintings, and the famous baptismal font as you learn about the humble beginnings of one of the greatest Poles in history.

Then, make your way inside the Family Home of John Paul II and take a tour with an accredited guide available in various languages. Spend at least 1 hour and 20 minutes in the museum. Later, visit the secondary school that Karol Wojtyła, as the pope was then known, attended. Take a nice picture of the monument of the young pope.

On the second half of the tour, head to the Jasna Góra Monastery in the town of Częstochowa, about 130 kilometers (around 80 miles) away from Kraków in southern Poland. Once there, explore a famous Polish shrine to Our Lady of Częstochowa, which constitutes one of Poland’s most visited pilgrimage sites.

Take a guided tour of the monastery with one of the Pauline monks who will show you the treasury filled with priceless gifts and accompany you to the chapel in the shrine. Finally, marvel at the miraculous painting of the Black Madonna and have a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel in Kraków.

Includes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Guided tour of Family Home of John Paul II Museum
  • Guided tour of Jasna Góra Monastery
  • Tickets and admission fees
  • Small-group tour
  • Water

Wadowice

Wadowice, birthplace of the Pope

Wadowice – updated on 13 January 2023.

Wadowice is a city in southern Poland located around 50 km southeast of Kraków and is the birthplace of Karol Wojtyła, better known to the world as Pope John Paul II, the first non-Italian pope since the 16th-century Pope Adrian VI. 

The Pope’s family home in Wadowice, which is now a museum, is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics. It contains personal mementos, photographs, and other items related to the Pope’s life and papacy. The house where he was born has been turned into a museum as well, where visitors can learn about his early life and see some of his childhood possessions.

Pope John Paul II - Wadowice

Pilgrimage destination

Wadowice has evolved into a popular pilgrimage destination with more than 200,000 visitors every year. Pilgrims arrive to pay their respects to the Wojtyła family home, which is now a museum and to also have a slice of the famous kremówka, the Pope’s favourite cream-filled pastry.

The Pope’s former home is a modest apartment block located at 7 Kościelna Street and in the Pope’s own words, “It is the place where it all began.”

The Wojtyła family

The Wojtyła family first moved into the apartment in 1919 and rented two rooms with a kitchen on the first floor. Karol Wojtyła was born in this apartment on 18 May 1920. After his mother’s death on 13 April 1929, Karol and his father occupied only one smaller room and the kitchen. Wojtyła lived in this house until 1938, when he moved with his father to Kraków and enrolled at Jagiellonian University.

The apartment has been a historic house museum since 1984; it preserves its original structure and houses a collection of objects that belonged to the Wojtyła family.

Wadowice

Wadowice is a small town, but it has a number of notable churches, parks and monuments . Visitors can also explore the local market square and take a stroll along the picturesque town’s streets.

Museum

The museum also commemorates Wojtyła’s life and his work in Poland until he left Kraków for the Vatican in 1978.

Pope John Paul II

Pope John Paul II was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from 1978 until his death in 2005. He was elected pope by the second papal conclave of 1978, which was called after John Paul I, who had been elected in August to succeed Pope Paul VI, died after 33 days. Cardinal Wojtyła was elected on the third day of the conclave and adopted the name of his predecessor in tribute to him.

John Paul II is recognised as helping to end Communist rule in his native Poland and the rest of Europe.

Visit the website – The Holy Father John Paul II Family Home Museum.

Religious Tours

Wadowice

What to expect from this tour

This fascinating tour with a religious context will start from the pick-up from your accommodation in Krakow. At first, you will go to Wadowice, the hometown of The Holy Father John Paul II. Follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest Poles in history.

You will see the secondary school which young Karol Wojtyła attended. Then you will go to the Main Market Square named after John Paul II and visit the parish church. You will admire numerous paintings, chapels and famous baptismal font where future Pope had been baptized. Finally, you will participate in a guided tour at the Family Home Museum of John Paul II available in various languages.

From Wadowice you will go directly to Częstochowa often called the spiritual capital of Poland. Marvel the beauty and mystical atmosphere of Jasna Góra, the famous Polish shrine to the Virgin Mary and one of Poland’s most visited pilgrimage sites. Upon arrival enjoy your time having a lunch break at your own expense. Start your tour at The Monastery guided by venerable Pauline’s Monk. In the end, you will admire the miraculous painting of The Black Madonna of Częstochowa.

Licheń

The Basilica of Our Lady of Licheń

Licheń – updated 12 January 2023.

Licheń is a village in central Poland, located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship. It is known for the Basilica of Our Lady of Licheń, a large Roman Catholic church that is one of the largest in the world and also an important pilgrimage site in the country. The church was built in the mid-19th century and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is renowned for its beautiful architecture and artwork, including frescoes, sculptures, and a large painting of the Virgin Mary.

Licheń

Holy relic

The Basilica is also known for its relic which is a piece of the veil of the Virgin Mary. The relic was brought to Licheń in 1891 by the local priest, who claimed that it had been given to him by an angel. The relic is believed to have miraculous powers and is the main reason for many pilgrimages to Licheń.

Each year, thousands of pilgrims visit Licheń to attend mass, to pray, and to participate in religious ceremonies. The village also has a pilgrimage center which offer accommodation and facilities for the visitors.

7,000 worshippers

The size of the church is staggering, the nave (central part of the church) is 120m long and 77m wide. It has a 98m tall central dome and a 141.5m high tower and is Poland’s largest church and one of the largest church buildings in the world. It has been estimated that the church can house a congregation of 7,000 worshippers.

Virgin Mary

The painting of the Virgin Mary, the Sorrowful Queen of Poland, is displayed on the basilica's main altar. The painting is believed to date back to the 18th century and is said to have been painted by St. Luke the Evangelist.

Barbara Bielecka

The Basilica of Our Lady of Licheń was constructed between 1994 and 2004 and was designed by Barbara Bielecka, a Polish Functionalist architect and was funded by pilgrims' donations.

Golden dome

The temple is a five-nave transept cruciform basilica (Latin cross) with a semi-circular chancel. Its façade is headed by an impressive column portico. The whole building is covered with an enormous golden dome, visible from the distance of almost 20km away.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Licheń is also known for its impressive Neo-Baroque architecture and its beautiful interior decorations, including frescoes, mosaics and sculptures.

Tomasz Kłossowski

The history of the foundation of the church can be traced back to 1813. It all started with a Polish soldier named Tomasz Kłossowski who was fighting under Napoleon at the Battle of Leipzig and was seriously wounded.

According to legend, he prayed to the Virgin Mary begging her not to let him die in a foreign land and she appeared to him wearing a golden crown, a dark red gown, with a golden mantle, and holding a white eagle in her right hand.

Licheń

She comforted the soldier and promised he would recover and return to Poland. Tomasz was instructed to have an image of her made, and to place the image in a public place so that “My people will pray before this image and shall draw many graces at My hands in the hardest times of trial.”

Pope John Paul II blessed the Basilica in 1999.

The largest organ in Poland (13th largest in the world) was added to the church between 2002 and 2007.

The village of Licheń is also known for its historic church of Saint Maximilian Kolbe and the new shrine of Divine Mercy.

Religious Tours

Wadowice

What to expect from this tour

This fascinating tour with a religious context will start from the pick-up from your accommodation in Krakow. At first, you will go to Wadowice, the hometown of The Holy Father John Paul II. Follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest Poles in history.

You will see the secondary school which young Karol Wojtyła attended. Then you will go to the Main Market Square named after John Paul II and visit the parish church. You will admire numerous paintings, chapels and famous baptismal font where future Pope had been baptized. Finally, you will participate in a guided tour at the Family Home Museum of John Paul II available in various languages.

From Wadowice you will go directly to Częstochowa often called the spiritual capital of Poland. Marvel the beauty and mystical atmosphere of Jasna Góra, the famous Polish shrine to the Virgin Mary and one of Poland’s most visited pilgrimage sites. Upon arrival enjoy your time having a lunch break at your own expense. Start your tour at The Monastery guided by venerable Pauline’s Monk. In the end, you will admire the miraculous painting of The Black Madonna of Częstochowa.

Jasna Góra Monastery

Jasna Góra

Jasna Góra – updated 12 January 2023.

The Jasna Góra Monastery is located in Poland’s spiritual capital, the city of Częstochowa, within the Silesian Voivodeship in southern Poland. It is a pilgrimage site for Catholics and is home to the famous icon of the Black Madonna, which is considered to be one of the most important religious artifacts in Poland.

Bright Hill

Jasna Góra is a shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary and was founded in 1382 by Pauline monks. The Paulite order named the hill in the western part of the city ‘Jasna Góra’ (Bright Hill) and erected the monastery, which has been a pilgrimage destination since the Middle Ages. It was a place of refuge during times of war, and it was also the site of several battles.

The Black Madonna

The icon of the Black Madonna, also known as the “Our Lady of Częstochowa,” is believed to be a Byzantine icon dating back to the 14th century. The icon is housed in the monastery's main church, the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is open to the public for viewing.

The image of the Black Madonna of Częstochowa, also known as Our Lady of Częstochowa, to which miraculous powers are attributed, is one of Jasna Góra's most precious treasures.

Jasna Góra

4 million pilgrims

Each year, thousands of believers are drawn to the site to see the Black Madonna painting in the Chapel of Our Lady and to look around the monastery. It is estimated that over 4 million pilgrims visit the shrine every year from as many as 80 different countries. Many Polish pilgrims travel there by foot with the average distance for a pilgrim group to travel being around 350 km over an 11-day period. Pilgrims usually plan their journeys so that they arrive in Jasna Góra in time for the Assumption of Mary.

The Chapel of Our Lady

The Chapel of Our Lady is the oldest part of the monastery, and this is where the Black Madonna can be viewed. The picture is unveiled from 6am to noon and from 1.30pm until 9.20pm. During weekends times are 6am to 1pm and 2pm until 9.20pm.

Pontiffs

Several Pontiffs have recognised the venerated icon, beginning with Pope Clement XI who issued a Canonical Coronation to the image on 8 September 1717 via the Vatican Chapter. Pope John Paul II, a native son of Poland, prayed before the Madonna during his historic visit in 1979, several months after his election to the Chair of Peter. The Pope made another visit to Our Lady of Czestochowa in 1983 and again in 1991.

The legend

The legend concerning the two scars on the Black Madonna’s right cheek is that the Hussites stormed the Pauline monastery in 1430, plundering the sanctuary. Among the items stolen was the icon. After putting it in their wagon, the Hussites tried to get away, but their horses refused to move. They threw the portrait down to the ground and one of the plunderers drew his sword upon the image and inflicted two deep strikes. When the robber tried to inflict a third strike, he fell to the ground and writhed in agony until his death. Despite past attempts to repair these scars, they had difficulty in covering up those slashes as the painting was done with tempera infused with diluted wax.

There’s a lot more to Jasna Góra than the Black Madonna such as the 17th century basilica with its opulent baroque furnishings, the 106m tall bell tower, an arsenal with an impressive collection of Turkish weapons from the 1683 Battle of Vienna and a museum.

Museum

You’ll find some very interesting artefacts in the museum such as the founding documents of Jasna Góra from 1382 and a cross made from steel from the rubble of the World Trade Center.

The  museum houses an impressive collection of religious artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. It also has a gift shop, a restaurant, and accommodation for pilgrims.

Lech Wałęsa

Among the monastery's most important exhibits is the medal from the 1983 Nobel Peace Prize received by Lech Wałęsa, the former Polish president and trade-union organizer and rosaries made from breadcrumbs by concentration camp prisoners.

Etiquette

There are typically numerous pilgrims and tourists at Jasna Góra Monastery, and the volume of excited voices can be high. However, upon entering the Monastery, it is expected etiquette for visitors to be silent or as quiet as possible out of respect. Often, there is a long line of people who wait to approach the shrine of the Black Madonna of Częstochowa. Upon arriving at the place of the shrine at which one would pass in front of the icon of Our Lady, it is expected and a sign of respect for pilgrims to drop to their knees and traverse the anterior of the shrine on their knees.

The Monastery is open to visitors all year round and it's a place of pilgrimage, so visitors should be aware of the dress code, which requires modest dress and head covering for women.

FAQ

  1. What is the significance of the Jasna Góra Monastery?
  • The Jasna Góra Monastery is one of the most important religious destinations in Poland and a pilgrimage site for Catholics. It is home to the famous icon of the Black Madonna, which is considered to be one of the most important religious artifacts in Poland.
  1. How old is the Jasna Góra Monastery?
  • The Jasna Góra Monastery was founded in the 14th century.
  1. What can I see at the Jasna Góra Monastery?
  • Visitors can see the famous icon of the Black Madonna, which is housed in the monastery's main church, the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The monastery also has a museum that houses an impressive collection of religious artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.
  1. Are there any restrictions on visiting the Jasna Góra Monastery?
  • There is a dress code which requires modest dress and head covering for women. Visitors should also be aware that the Monastery is a place of pilgrimage, so it is expected to be quiet and respectful.
  1. Are there any guided tours available at the Jasna Góra Monastery?
  • Yes, guided tours are available at the Jasna Góra Monastery. Visitors can ask for the tour in the information point or see below.
  1. Can I stay overnight at the Jasna Góra Monastery?
  • Yes, the Monastery has accommodation for pilgrims, including single, double and multi-bed rooms, and dormitories.
  1. Are there any other facilities at the Jasna Góra Monastery?
  • The Monastery has a restaurant, a gift shop, and a parking lot for visitors.

Religious Tours

Wadowice

What to expect from this tour

This fascinating tour with a religious context will start from the pick-up from your accommodation in Krakow. At first, you will go to Wadowice, the hometown of The Holy Father John Paul II. Follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest Poles in history.

You will see the secondary school which young Karol Wojtyła attended. Then you will go to the Main Market Square named after John Paul II and visit the parish church. You will admire numerous paintings, chapels and famous baptismal font where future Pope had been baptized. Finally, you will participate in a guided tour at the Family Home Museum of John Paul II available in various languages.

From Wadowice you will go directly to Częstochowa often called the spiritual capital of Poland. Marvel the beauty and mystical atmosphere of Jasna Góra, the famous Polish shrine to the Virgin Mary and one of Poland’s most visited pilgrimage sites. Upon arrival enjoy your time having a lunch break at your own expense. Start your tour at The Monastery guided by venerable Pauline’s Monk. In the end, you will admire the miraculous painting of The Black Madonna of Częstochowa.