Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is a town in southern Poland with significant cultural and theological significance for Polish Catholics. The entire historical, architectural, and pilgrimage complex, which includes a basilica, a Franciscan monastery, and multiple streets, was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999.

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is in the Lesser Poland Voivodship (Malopolska), 40 kilometers south-west of Krakow. It sprang up near the Cedron River, between two gorgeous mountains, Lanckoronska (555 meters above sea level) and Zar (527 m). The population of this little town is roughly 4,000 people.

Every year, two major events draw large crowds to this gorgeous location. One of these events occurs during Holy Week when pilgrims flock to see the colorful, dramatic, and realistic Passion Play depicting the final days of Jesus' life. The drama, viewed as a collective catharsis, provides a more in-depth understanding of traditional Polish Catholicism. During the summer, Kalwaria comes alive during the Festival of the Assumption (15 August), Poland's most important Marian holiday.

Pilgrims can visit all of the lovely little churches, chapels, and other monuments that can be found within this romantic setting, whether it is summer or winter. The Tomb of Jesus Christ, the House of Mary, and the Western Gate are especially valuable. The miracle painting of the Virgin Mary and Child, placed in the Zebrzydowski Chapel, is the most notable religious artifact to be found here.

Location: Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, Wadowice, Poland