Kodeń on the Bug: Pilgrimage, History and the River

Pilgrimage and Churches in Kodeń

For centuries, the Marian shrine has drawn pilgrims from across Poland. The annual indulgence celebrations begin on August 14 and reach their culmination on August 15, the Feast of the Assumption of Mary; thousands of pilgrims take part. Organized groups visiting the sanctuary should register at the monastery gate. If you are planning a group trip, it is best to confirm registration and possible guided tour arrangements directly with the sanctuary.

The Church of St. Anne (św. Anny) was built from 1629 to 1635 in the Late Renaissance style. Together with the Orthodox church, it reflects the area’s multicultural history. Another religious landmark is the Church of the Holy Spirit (Ducha Świętego), where the crucifix Ukrzyżowany Uśmiechnięty is venerated. It depicts Christ with a serene, smiling face.

Kalwaria and Historic Traces

The Stations of the Cross at Kalwaria Kodeńska run along renovated ramparts surrounding the Church of the Holy Spirit and the former castle. The church chapel is also part of the Stations of the Cross. Groups of visitors can book a secular guide to lead them around the Kalwaria grounds and to the ruins of Sapieha Castle; confirm arrangements with the sanctuary.

The remains of Sapieha Castle include foundations, 17th-century earthworks and an arsenal dating from the 16th to 17th centuries. The cemetery chapel of St. Lawrence (św. Wawrzyńca) was built from 1683 to 1685 through the efforts of Kazimierz Władysław Sapieha. Another historic structure is Brama Unicka on ul. Sławatyckiej. Together, these sites offer a glimpse into different periods of Kodeń’s history—from traces of Sapieha Castle to the cemetery chapel built from 1683 to 1685.

The Marian Herb Garden and Its Design

The Marian herb garden is laid out as a labyrinth shaped like unfurling rose petals. Its design is intended to evoke the rosary and highlight the Marian pilgrimage site. The garden features a main fountain and four smaller fountains; their book-shaped designs are considered representations of the fundamental truths of the faith. Visitors can sample or buy fresh and dried herbs, as well as herbal tea. If you are planning to sample or buy something, check current availability in advance.

By the Bug: Trails and Activities on the Water

Kodeń lies on the Bug, and tourist activities include riverside recreation, kayaking, and cycling and hiking trails along the river. The Green Velo – Eastern Cycling Trail also passes through Kodeń. Its approximately 351-kilometer stretch in the Lublin Voivodeship 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.

Recreation and fishing are the main attractions at Paweł Sapieha Harbor. From the harbor pier, visitors can take pedal boats across Rozlewisko Genezaret and out onto the reservoir; it is advisable to check current availability in advance when planning this trip. A grotto with Our Lady of Fatima stands beside Rozlewisko Genezaret, at the edge of the forest. In Kodeń, water-based activities can thus be combined with religious sites and historic buildings, without limiting the outing to just one theme.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Grabanów, Woskrzenice Małe, Rokitno, Pratulin, Małaszewicze Duże, Wisznice, Mokrany Nowe, Solinki.

Return to the main travel overview: Bialski.