Jasna Góra Monastery

Jasna Góra Monastery is a revered pilgrimage destination. The fortified Jasna Góra Monastery is located in Częstochowa, a city in the Silesian Voivodeship in the south of Poland. Over the centuries, Our Lady of Częstochowa became the symbol of national unity, resistance and spontaneous miracles. Every year, millions of pilgrims from around the world honor the Black Madonna of Częstochowa. A stroll along the fortified walls reveals historic cannons and a panoramic view of the surrounding park and the city. Jasna Góra Monastery is a cherished pilgrimage destination, a place of prayer and devotion to the iconic Black Madonna.

Częstochowa, a city in the Silesian Voivodeship in the south of Poland, is the center of Polish Catholicism. Located in Częstochowa, Jasna Góra Monastery is a famous shrine founded in the 14th century by the Pauline Monks. The Pauline Order was brought to Poland from Hungary. The icon of the Black Madonna depicting the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, was brought to Częstochowa in the 14th century by Prince Ladislaus. Over the centuries, Our Lady of Częstochowa became the symbol of national unity, resistance and spontaneous miracles. Jasna Góra Monastery withstood a six-week siege in the 17th century, successfully defending the monastery against the invading Swedish army.

Pilgrimage to Częstochowa

Jasna Góra Monastery is a revered pilgrimage destination in Poland. Every year, millions of pilgrims from around the world honor the Black Madonna of Częstochowa. Poles participate in organized pilgrimage by walking many days from different parts of the country. The spiritual journey encompasses praying, singing, having meals together and lodging in the villages along the way. As pilgrims arrive to Jasna Góra, they proceed to the chapel to observe the iconic Black Madonna of Częstochowa.

Architecture and Places

Jasna Góra Monastery showcases Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. The Bell Tower, rebuilt in the 20th century after a fire, is 106 meters high and comprises a carillon with 36 bells. A collection of entrances to the monastery features sculptures and decorative elements. The Lubomirski Gate is decorated with a statue of St. Michael the Archangel. A stroll along the fortified walls reveals historic cannons and a panoramic view of the surrounding park and the city. The Chapel of our Lady, the oldest part of Jasna Góra Monastery, exhibits the famous painting of the Black Madonna. Adjoining the chapel, the Basilica, designed in the baroque style, comprises the main altar, large organs and stunning vaults adorned with frescoes. Knights’ Hall (Sala Rycerska) chronicles the historic events of the monastery. The 17th century paintings and banners of the Polish Army and the scouts decorate the hall. The Arsenal has a collection of military weapons and the treasury exhibits precious gifts and jewels. Jasna Góra Monastery is a cherished pilgrimage destination, a place of prayer and devotion to the iconic Black Madonna.