The Basilica of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Czerwińsk nad Wisłą

The Basilica of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Czerwińsk nad Wisłą, also known as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Consolation, is a Roman Catholic Romanesque church dating back to the second quarter of the 12th century. It was built under the direction of Płock Bishop Alexander of Malonne with the participation of local princes. This valuable architectural monument, despite numerous Gothic and Baroque reconstructions, retains many Romanesque features. The interior is characterized by a three-nave basilica layout, a low transept, and two western towers. Among its architectural elements, the richly decorated Romanesque portal from the early 12th century stands out, largely reconstructed in the early 20th century. Particularly noteworthy are the column capitals with elemental symbolism and the original doors with Romanesque metal fittings. The church also houses valuable frescoes, including depictions of the Last Judgment and scenes from the Book of Genesis, dating back to the 13th century and considered local artistic masterpieces. The monastery of the Canons Regular, which once stood adjacent to the church, was dissolved in the 19th century, yet the church continued its parish functions. In 1968, Pope Paul VI granted it the status of a minor basilica. A notable historical event took place here in 1410 when King Władysław Jagiełło prayed before the Battle of Grunwald. The main altar, dated to around 1630, is adorned with the image of Our Lady of Czerwińsk, considered miraculous and painted by Łukasz of Łowicz. The basilica is not only an important place of worship but also a treasury of cultural heritage, attracting both pilgrims and enthusiasts of history and architecture.