Kodeń – Pilgrimage, Culture and Nature on the Bug

Kodeń lies on the Bug and has been a destination for pilgrims from all over Poland for centuries. The Marian sanctuary shapes the town; churches, Kalwaria Kodeńska, a Marian herb garden and waterside activities offer a variety of experiences. You can tailor your stay to religious history, historic buildings or activities on the river.

Pilgrimage and Churches in Kodeń

The annual indulgence celebration at Sanktuarium Matki Bożej Kodeńskiej begins on 14 August. It reaches its peak on 15 August, the Feast of the Assumption of Mary; thousands of pilgrims take part. The Marian sanctuary has attracted people from all over Poland for centuries. If the celebration is the reason for your trip, these two days in August are key to your planning.

The parish church of św. Anny also tells the story of the town: it was built between 1629 and 1635 in the late Renaissance style. Together with the Orthodox church, it recalls the multicultural history of the area. The cemetery chapel of św. Wawrzyńca was built between 1683 and 1685 through the efforts of Kazimierz Władysław Sapieha. The construction dates show that Kodeń’s religious and architectural history spans several centuries.

Kalwaria and Historic Buildings

The Stations of the Cross at Kalwaria Kodeńska run along renovated ramparts surrounding the church of Ducha Świętego and the former castle. The chapel of the church of Świętego Ducha is also part of the Stations of the Cross. The church displays the venerated crucifix “Ukrzyżowany Uśmiechnięty”: Christ is depicted with a serene, smiling face. The combination of the Stations of the Cross, the church and the castle grounds gives Kalwaria its own historical context.

The foundations, 17th-century earthworks and an arsenal dating from the 16th to 17th centuries are all that remain of Sapieha Castle. The historic Brama Unicka is located on ul. Sławatyckiej. Groups of visitors can book a secular guide who will lead them around the Kalwaria grounds and to the castle ruins. Organized groups visiting the sanctuary are asked to register at the monastery gate. Arrange group visits directly with the sanctuary in advance.

Marian Herb Garden and Waterside Experiences

The Marian herb garden is laid out as a maze in the shape of unfolding rose petals. Its design is intended to evoke the rosary and highlight the character of this Marian pilgrimage site. One main fountain and four smaller fountains complete the grounds; basic truths of the faith are depicted on them in the form of books. Visitors can sample or buy fresh and dried herbs and drink herbal tea. If these offerings are important to your visit, check their current availability in advance.

At the edge of the forest next to Rozlewisko Genezaret is a grotto with Our Lady of Fatima. From the harbor, visitors can cross the Rozlewisko in pedal boats and head out onto the reservoir. Check the current schedule before planning an outing. Paweł Sapieha Harbor is a place for recreation and offers opportunities for fishing.

Cycling and Walking Trails on the Bug

Cycling and walking trails along the Bug, as well as kayaking, are among the tourist activities available in Kodeń. The Green Velo – Eastern Cycling Trail passes through the town. The section in the Lublin Voivodeship is about 351 kilometers long and runs, among other places, through Janów Podlaski, Kodeń, Sławatycze, Włodawa and Chełm. The routes mentioned vary in type: Green Velo is part of a longer cycling route, while kayaking and recreation on the Bug offer other ways to enjoy a stay by the river. Check the latest route information before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Małaszewicze Duże, Sławatycze, Bubel-Łukowiska, Gnojno, Woskrzenice Małe, Leśna Podlaska, Mokrany Nowe, Horbów.

For the broader travel overview: Bialski.