Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Koronowo

The Collegiate Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Koronowo, also known as the Koronowo Collegiate Church, is an impressive Gothic church built in the 13th and 14th centuries, associated with a historic Cistercian abbey. Located on Bydgoska Street in Koronowo, it serves as a parish church while also being a valuable architectural and cultural monument of the region. Construction of the church began in 1289, when the Cistercians from Byszewo moved to Śmiewce. The design of the temple is attributed to the monk Theodricus. The church was built in stages, starting with the presbytery, followed by the main body. Thanks to funding from the abbey, construction was completed before 1350. The history of the basilica is turbulent; the church went through various periods of prosperity and decline, including fires in the 14th century and destruction during the Swedish invasions in the 17th century. After the dissolution of the monastery in 1819, the temple became a parish church, and in 2000, the Koronowo Collegiate Chapter was established, elevating its status. In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI granted it the title of a minor basilica. Architecturally, the basilica stands out for its size—it is 72 meters long, and the transept is 28 meters wide. The interior combines Gothic and Baroque elements; the Gothic style of the northern row of chapels contrasts with the Baroque southern row. Rich decorations include ceramic corbels in the presbytery, a 14th-century frieze, and stucco vaults. The interior furnishings, marked by Baroque and Rococo styles, are also magnificent. A key feature is the main altar with paintings by Bartłomiej Strobel, dated to 1738. Its central part depicts the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, along with significant figures and paintings. Additionally, there are Baroque pulpits and stalls that bear traces of rich sculptural decoration. The interior is also adorned with paintings by Franciszek Remel from 1758, which illustrate monastic life. Interestingly, there is a crypt with burials of monks from the 13th century, indicating the historical depth of this place. The basilica in Koronowo is not only a historical treasure but also a religious one, attracting both the faithful and architecture enthusiasts.