Among dense trees, at the foot of the most beautiful Tatra Mountains, on an area of more than 400 hectares, stands a unique Kalwaria Zebrzydowska monastery complex. It is often called the Polish Jerusalem because the downland on which it stands resembles Calvary, which became the inspiration for the architectural design of the complex.

The magnificent Kalwaria Zebrzydowska complex was built in 1600 by the famous Krakow battle master Zebrzydowski, after whom it got its second name. The first one was given to the monastery by its creator: “Kalwaria” in Polish means Calvary, in whose tribute the complex was erected.

Initially, the Late Renaissance complex included 24 chapels and 14 stops of the Way of the Cross, marked with huge wooden crosses. Over time, they were replaced by small but richly decorated chapels. The construction took a while; in 1632, a wall surrounded the monastery complex; a bit later, nine more beautiful chapels were added.

In 1654-1656, the Baroque features were introduced into the monastery as several extra buildings were needed for those who served in the shrine. And in 1887, the wonder-working icon of Our Lady of Kalwaria was placed in the Our Lady of the Angels Basilica. The owner of the icon noticed that the eyes of Our Lady began to weep oil. He decided that it was a sign he should share with all the Polish and donated the icon to the largest and most beautiful monastery of his time.

Traditions are venerated here, and beautiful holidays and rituals are held. The most vivid and exciting of them takes place throughout the Holy Week before Easter when the Passion plays are performed in the monastery. These rituals have ancient roots and have been held here since 1630, following all the rules and traditions.