CZESTOCHOWA - SPIRITUAL CAPITAL OF POLAND

The first mention of Czestochowa dates back to the 13th century, but it was not until the 16th century that it received city rights. Until the 18th century, the city was territorially part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. However, after the First Partition of Poland, it was incorporated into Prussia. From 1807 to 1815, Czestochowa formed part of the Duchy of Warsaw, and from 1815 to 1918, it belonged to the Kingdom of Poland. Since 1918, Czestochowa, as a city, has been an integral part of the Polish State, providing assistance in times of trouble and providing shelter, for example, to Silesian and Warsaw insurgents. In 1944, after the fall of Warsaw, Czestochowa became the capital of the Polish Underground State. From October 5, 1944, the headquarters of the Home Army Headquarters operated here. It was located at 7 Kamienic 21 and served its purpose until January 19, 1945.

The Polish National Marian Sanctuary is one of the most important sanctuaries in the world. The Jasna Góra Sanctuary and its fortress hold particular value in the history of the Polish Nation. The Sanctuary's religious significance is linked to the historical and patriotic pastoral pilgrimages. The fortress, in turn, served as the centre of the nation's defence against occupiers and regimes. Additionally, Jasna Góra has significant scientific value, including its archives, old and new libraries, and historical and art museums with rich collections.

Exhibition dates: December 1-31, 2025, free admission