On 15 August, the annual indulgence at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Kodeń reaches its climax with the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. Kodeń lies on the Bug River; alongside the Marian pilgrimage, historic churches, an artfully designed herb garden and water-based activities shape the character of the town. These different highlights can help you decide whether Kodeń suits your travel interests.
Pilgrimage and architectural history
The annual indulgence begins on 14 August, with thousands of pilgrims taking part. The Marian shrine has drawn pilgrims from across Poland for centuries. Organised groups visiting the sanctuary should register at the monastery gate. Check the current arrangements for groups directly with the sanctuary in advance.
The Church of St Anne was built between 1629 and 1635 in the late Renaissance style. Together with the Orthodox church, it recalls the area's multicultural history. The Cemetery Chapel of St Lawrence was built between 1683 and 1685 through the efforts of Kazimierz Władysław Sapieha. The historic Brama Unicka (Uniate Gate) is on ul. Sławatyckiej.
Kalwaria, the castle and the Marian Herb Garden
The remains of the Sapieha Castle in Kodeń include foundations, 17th-century earthworks and an arsenal dating from the 16th–17th centuries. The Stations of the Cross at Kalwaria Kodeńska follow restored ramparts surrounding the Church of the Holy Spirit and the former castle. The chapel of the Church of the Holy Spirit is part of the Stations of the Cross. The church is home to the venerated crucifix Ukrzyżowany Uśmiechnięty (The Smiling Crucifix), which depicts Christ with a serene, smiling face.
Groups of visitors can book a secular guide to lead them around the grounds of Kalwaria and to the ruins of Sapieha Castle. Arrange this directly with the sanctuary.
The Marian Herb Garden is designed as a labyrinth of unfurling rose petals. Its shape is intended to evoke the rosary and highlight the Marian pilgrimage site. The garden features a main fountain and four smaller ones, with fundamental truths of the faith depicted in the form of books. Herbs are also part of the visitor experience: fresh and dried herbs are available to sample or buy, and herbal tea is served too. If you are planning specifically to visit for this, check availability in advance.
On the Bug: cycling, kayaking and relaxation
Beside Rozlewisko Genezaret, at the edge of the forest, there is a grotto with a statue of Our Lady of Fatima. From the marina, you can take a pedal boat through Rozlewisko Genezaret and out onto the reservoir. Check the current operating dates before making plans. Paweł Sapieha Marina is a place to relax and offers opportunities for fishing.
Cycling and walking routes along the Bug are among the things to do in Kodeń, along with kayaking and relaxing by the river. The Green Velo – Eastern Cycling Trail also passes through the town. The section in Lublin Voivodeship is about 351 kilometres long and runs, among other places, through Janów Podlaski, Kostomłoty, Kodeń, Jabłeczna, Sławatycze and Włodawa. If you are planning a cycling trip, check the latest route information before setting off. This helps distinguish the regional long-distance route from local cycling and walking options.
Choose the right focus for your stay
Kodeń offers options for both interests. Choose the destination based on what matters most to you, and check the current conditions for activities with set dates or changing availability.
Discover more destinations: Leśna Podlaska, Horbów, Pratulin, Międzyrzec Podlaski, Małaszewicze Duże, Konstantynów, Mokrany Nowe, Solinki
For the full travel overview: Bialski.
