Sanktuarium Bożego Miłosierdzia w Krakowie-Łagiewnikach

The Shrine of Divine Mercy in Kraków-Łagiewniki is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Poland and the worldwide centre of the Divine Mercy devotion. The complex lies in the southern part of Kraków, on Siostry Faustyny Street, and combines an old convent with its chapel and a modern basilica built at the turn of the 21st century.

Why does this place matter so much?

Łagiewniki is bound up with the life and work of Saint Faustina Kowalska, a nun who lived in the convent of the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy and died here. Her message of trust in God's mercy, recorded in her "Diary", became the foundation of a devotion that now reaches every continent. Since the 1940s pilgrims have come to Łagiewniki to pray at Faustina's tomb and before the image of the Merciful Jesus.

History of the convent and chapel

At the end of the 19th century a convent of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy was founded in Łagiewniki. A generous donation from Prince Aleksander Lubomirski made it possible to build a chapel, convent buildings and a home for girls. The sisters ran educational and charitable work here, and only later did the site become a destination for pilgrims from around the world.

The heart of the shrine remains the convent chapel. It holds the image of the Merciful Jesus with the inscription "Jesus, I trust in You", painted by Adolf Hyła in line with Sister Faustina's visions. Thousands of the faithful pray before it, and the saint's tomb is in the chapel as well.

The basilica and the Pope's visits

Next to the chapel stands a large basilica, built to receive crowds of pilgrims that the old chapel could never hold. Pope John Paul II consecrated it on 17 August 2002 and, in that act, entrusted the entire world to Divine Mercy. Earlier, in 1997, he had said that the message of mercy in Sister Faustina's "Diary" had always been close and dear to him.

What to see and how to visit

• The convent chapel with the image of the Merciful Jesus and the tomb of Saint Faustina.
• The basilica, a spacious church where the main services are held.
• The grounds, with places for prayer and quiet reflection, which also keep the memory of Saint John Paul II.

The largest crowds gather on Divine Mercy Sunday, the first Sunday after Easter, and at the Hour of Mercy at three in the afternoon, when a special prayer is said. Expect crowds then. Weekday mornings are calmer.

Frequently asked questions

Is the shrine only for believers? No. Although it is above all a place of prayer, tourists interested in the history, architecture and culture of Kraków visit as well. Respect for those praying is expected: modest dress and silence in the chapel.

Whom does the shrine commemorate? Mainly Saint Faustina Kowalska, the apostle of Divine Mercy, and Pope John Paul II, who consecrated the basilica and was a great advocate of this message.

Where is the "Jesus, I trust in You" image? In the convent chapel, which is the heart of the whole complex.

How much time should I set aside? To see the chapel, the basilica and the grounds without rushing, allow at least two hours, and more during religious celebrations.

Can I get there from central Kraków by public transport? Yes, Łagiewniki is well connected to the city, and a visit fits well with exploring Kraków's southern districts.