The ruins of the Ogrodzieniec Castle in Podzamcze - Station 10 – Sanctuarium Matki Boskiej Skałkowej (The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Skała)

Description

You are in the terrain of the Sanctuarium Matki Boskiej Skałkowej (photo 07.10.001). The cult of Mary started here in 1818. On 14 October, Virgin Mary appear in the rock to one of the villagers. Since that time, this place has become very important for believers from Podzamcze and the surrounding area.

In 1862, the heir of the village, Ludwik Kozłowski, placed in the rock a painting of Our Lady of Czestochowa. Apparently since then the residents daily climbed the ladder to put a light in front of the image. Its story was not known until it was set for maintenance. Then, it turned out that on the reverse side there is an inscription that tells when and who moved the image on the rock.

In the 50s of the 20th century, the inhabitants decided to build on Skałka a small chapel. Fifty years later, it was renewed. In 2002, the Bishop Adam Śmigielski upgraded this place to the rank of sanctuary.

A modern gate with a bell tower leads to the chapel (photo 07.10.002). On the square in front of the building are set five rosary station with sculptures depicting the events mentioned in the stations (photo 07.10.003-07.10.008). The chapel was built at the foot of a rock, on which hung the picture. To make it visible, as formerly (photo 07.10.010), the walls of the building were made of glass (photo 07.10.009). The image itself is painted on wood. After maintenance it was covered with a golden material.

Above the sanctuary dominates a sculpture of the Virgin Mary set on a top of the rock (photo 07.10.011), next to which stands a metal cross (photo 07.10.012). A carved angel takes care of the chapel (photo 07.10.013).

From the sanctuary we propose to move toward Mount Birów. To do this, go back to the road N. 710, approximately 250 m, and turn right, in accordance with the signpost. But before you visit Mount Birów we invite you to Suchy Połeć. This place is opposite the parking.