Basilica of the Holy Cross in Warsaw

The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Warsaw, located at 3 Krakowskie Przedmieście Street, has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, when a chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross stood on the site. In 1525, a small church was built here, and in 1626, the parish was established by the Bishop of Poznań. The church underwent numerous reconstructions, especially after being damaged during the Swedish Deluge. Its current Baroque form dates from 1679–1696 and was designed by the architect Józef Szymon Bellotti, while the elegant towers, designed by Józef Fontana, were adorned with late Baroque spires. The church played a significant role in the cultural and political life of Poland, hosting ceremonies such as the bestowal of the Order of Saint Stanislaus and a session of the Great Sejm on the anniversary of the Constitution of 3 May. In 1814, Józef Poniatowski was buried here, and the church also became a site of pilgrimages and radio broadcasts of Mass starting in 1980, which had a profound impact on the social movement in Poland. Architecturally, the church is notable for its main nave with an altar, chapels, beautiful organs, and an unusual lower church layout. The crypt serves as the final resting place for notable figures, including Marshal of the Great Sejm Stanisław Małachowski and Princess Maria Radziwiłłowa. An interesting feature is the statue of Christ carrying the cross, which endured various hardships, including destruction during World War II, and was re-erected in 1945. The church also houses numerous epitaphs, including those of Frédéric Chopin and Władysław Reymont, as well as tributes to figures such as Adam Mickiewicz and Bolesław Prus. In 2002, Pope John Paul II granted the church the status of a minor basilica, underscoring its importance in Polish history and culture.