Basilica of Our Lady of the Gate of Dawn in Skarżysko-Kamienna

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Gate of Dawn in Skarżysko-Kamienna is an important sanctuary in the Radom diocese, serving as a replica of the Gate of Dawn in Vilnius. Its construction began in May 1988 on the initiative of Bishop Edward Materski, the first ordinary of the Radom diocese. The solemn consecration of the chapel and the enthronement of the image of Our Lady took place on October 22, 1989, and the painting, created by Izabela Borowska, was donated by Bishop Materski. In 2005, the image of Our Lady of the Gate of Dawn was crowned by the Bishop of Radom, Zygmunt Zimowski. The site earned special distinction through the establishment of the Chapter of the Gate of Dawn on May 17, 1992, and the introduction of the relics of St. Raphael to the sanctuary. In 2014, the sanctuary was granted the title of a minor basilica by decree of Pope Francis, which was celebrated during a solemn liturgy on October 25 of the same year. Our Lady of the Gate of Dawn was declared the patron saint of Skarżysko-Kamienna, highlighting her significance in the local culture and religious life. Architecturally, the basilica reflects features of the Neo-Gothic style, blending modern elements with the architectural traditions of the region. Interestingly, the sanctuary is a site of numerous pilgrimages and cultural events, contributing to the vibrancy of the local community.