Our Lady of Czestochowa
Czestochowa, Poland
La «Reina de Polonia» y una de las advocaciones más veneradas de Europa. La imagen milagrosa ha sobrevivido guerras, incendios y profanaciones.
The black image
The image of Our Lady of Czestochowa is a 6th-century Byzantine painting depicting the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus. The image is known as the "Black Madonna" due to the darkening of the faces over the centuries.
The defense of Jasna Gora
In 1655, the Jasna Góra monastery was besieged by the Swedish army. The monks and local inhabitants defended the sanctuary for 40 days, repelling the enemy. This event is known as the "Miracle of the Vistula."
The national pilgrimage
Every year, thousands of Poles walk to Czestochowa on pilgrimage. The most famous is the pilgrimage of Varsocia, which lasts 9 days and runs 250 km.
"Mother of God, Queen of Poland, pray for us." — Polish prayer
O Virgin of Czestochowa, Queen of Poland, protect your people and guide us in faith. Amen.