Piekary Calvary (Kalwaria Piekarska)

On Cerekwica hill in Piekary Śląskie, right next to the basilica of the sanctuary of Our Lady of Justice and Social Love, spreads the Piekary Calvary — a complex of calvary chapels which is an important place of prayer and pilgrimage in Upper Silesia.

From a parish priest's private initiative

The first works were undertaken in the 1860s by parish priest Bernard Purkop, on land that was then his private property. After his death in 1882 the calvary passed, according to his will, to the parish. Franciscan Edward Schneider (Władysław) prepared the master plan and designs for the church and chapels. By 1890, more than a dozen chapels had been built, including the Cenacle and Palace of Caiaphas. The complex was consecrated on 21 June 1896 by Cardinal Georg Kopp.

Pilgrimages written into Silesian history

Since the interwar period two annual state pilgrimages come here: women on the Sunday after 15 August and men on the last Sunday of May — among the most important religious events in the region, attracting thousands of worshippers. A monument to St John Paul II stands on the hill.

In practice

The calvary lies by Bytomska, Popiełuszki and Kalwaryjska streets, a quarter of an hour's walk from the centre of Piekary; free entry, all year. Combine it with a visit to the basilica with the image of Our Lady of Justice and Social Love.