Churches & monasteries

Golgotha in Licheń

Golgotha in Licheń Stary is a stone-and-concrete structure beside the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Licheń. It is about 25 m high and takes the form of a winding path through a maze of passages, grottos, chapels, figures and reliefs. A cross and statues of the Virgin Mary and St John stand at the top.

History and meaning

Construction began in 1975; for almost ten years local residents and pilgrims built it stone by stone. According to sanctuary materials, the Golgotha was intended as an act of penance and expiation for the wartime shooting of a cross in Licheń and for the removal of crosses from public spaces during the communist period. Today it is a place of prayer and reflection, not only a viewpoint.

What to see

The climb follows an uneven and sometimes narrow route between grottos and chapels. At the cross, visitors can pause for views over the sanctuary grounds and nearby lakes. Combine Golgotha with the basilica, St Dorothy’s Church, the museums and a walk around the extensive sanctuary grounds.

Practical information

Golgotha is an outdoor site within the sanctuary; entering the path does not require a separate ticket. Because of steps, stone passages and uneven surfaces, wear stable footwear. Opening arrangements and temporary closures may depend on religious events or works on the sanctuary grounds, so check current notices from Licheń before travelling.