Pilgrimage Netherlands Czestochowa (Poland) 15th day

The final stage goes to the campsite in Czestochowa, just a few hundred meters from the Jasna Gora monastery (bright mountain). In the church of this complex is the icon of the Black Madonna, the destination of this trip. This Mary is the patron saint of Poland. On the Feast of the Assumption, a mass is held in the presence of the President of Poland.

Make sure to arrive at the campsite a few days before August 15th; otherwise, there may be no space left. That doesn’t mean you can't camp, as there will be a tent in every free spot in the city during this period.

In the sanctuary, you are expected to crawl around the altar. It hurts a little, but afterwards, you can be sure of a spot in heaven.

Register at the information center in Jasna Gora as a pilgrim and ask for food vouchers. With such a voucher, you can get "a simple yet nutritious meal" at the pilgrim center for little money. This pilgrim building was gifted to the monastery by Pope John Paul II.

While waiting for the big day, you could take a train to Krakow. During that trip, you will see a very different - hilly - Poland than what you saw along the way.

The center of Krakow is super cozy and beautiful.

Enjoy in Czestochowa on a bench or a terrace the thousands and thousands of arriving pilgrims who, often in groups, sing and make music as they enter the city.

The campsite is good and very suitable for cyclists and hikers.