Basilica of the Immaculate Mediatrix of All Graces in Niepokalanów

The Basilica of the Immaculate Mediatrix of Graces in Niepokalanów, built between 1948 and 1954 in a modernist style designed by Zygmunt Gawlik, is a monumental temple with a capacity of up to 5,000 people. Its tower reaches a height of 47 meters, and the entrance doors feature symbols of important Marian apparitions. In 1980, Pope John Paul II granted it the title of minor basilica, and in 2004, it was elevated to the status of a sanctuary. The history of its construction dates back to the pre-war period when plans for the church were approved in 1938, but the war interrupted the project's implementation. After the war, the Franciscans resumed construction, partially using the earlier foundations. The temple houses sculptures, stained-glass windows, and colorful mosaics that illustrate the life of St. Maximilian Kolbe. The first Mass took place on December 8, 1949, and the church was consecrated in 1954. In 2015, a new altar with relics of St. Maximilian and John Paul II was installed. In 1983, John Paul II visited the basilica, which contributed to an increase in pilgrimage traffic. The basilica is known for its altars dedicated to St. Joseph, St. Anthony, and St. Maximilian Kolbe, as well as the lower chapel of Our Lady of Częstochowa, where various devotions are held. The architecture of the basilica combines modern forms with traditional elements, and its interior is adorned with marble pulpits and organs that enrich the spiritual dimension of visits. An interesting fact is that bas-reliefs depicting the Virgin Mary from the most important sanctuaries around the world and an image of John Paul II are placed at the entrance. The Basilica in Niepokalanów is an important place of worship, meetings, and reflection for many pilgrims.