Basilica of St. Mary and St. Bartholomew

The Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Bartholomew the Apostle in Piekary Śląskie is the centre of an important Marian shrine in Upper Silesia. It houses the revered image of Our Lady of Piekary and is linked with a long pilgrimage tradition. The Neo-Romanesque basilica was built in 1842–1849 on the initiative of Father Jan Alojzy Ficek. It has held the title of minor basilica since 1962.

The image of Our Lady of Piekary

The cult grew especially strongly in the 17th century, although the parish is medieval. The original image of the Madonna and Child is now kept in Opole. Piekary is home to a 17th-century copy. The image received papal crowns in 1925. The shrine also bears the title of Our Lady of Justice and Social Love.

Basilica, Calvary and shrine museum

Chapel buildings and cloisters survive around the basilica, while Piekary Calvary spreads across the nearby hill. Consecrated in 1896, the complex includes the Neo-Gothic Church of the Resurrection and around 40 religious structures. The Shrine Museum presents the history of the cult and memorabilia connected with Cardinal Karol Wojtyła. The museum requires advance contact and a shrine guide.

Visiting Piekary Śląskie

The basilica is an active church, so plan sightseeing outside Masses and pilgrimages. The parish publishes the current schedule, which can change. The museum requires advance contact with the pilgrimage centre. There is no regular admission ticket for the basilica and Calvary. Address: 7 Father Ficek Street, 41-940 Piekary Śląskie. Check announcements before travelling.