Queen of Poland from Częstochowa

Many foreigners who visit Poland are impressed by an extraordinary devotion of Poles to the Virgin Mary from Jasna Góra (I would translate that name as “ The Bright Mountain”) in Częstochowa. I was asked many times what made that place so special, why every year there are so many pilgrims adoring the Black Madonna.  I believe it is because of the special protection of the Virgin which we experienced many times during the most difficult years of our history. She was always with us and we really feel she is OUR MOTHER.  Her special dedication was reflected in many miracles she did, many of which are very personal, but some influenced all of us. It is worth-mentioning that she is not only our mother, but also the Queen of Poland as she was officially proclaimed in 1656 by John II Casimir Vasa, the King of Poland.

There are numerous legends about the origin of the icon. One of them says that the icon was painted by St. Luke on the table from the house of the Holy Family. How did it come to Poland then? The legend says that it was taken by the Prince whose life was saved the Virgin. It is said that She appeared to him and told him she wants to stay in Częstochowa. The fact is that in 1382 the prince Władysław founded the monastery of Jasna Góra.

What distinguishes the Black Madonna Icon is her face. There are two traces on her left cheek. When the icon was almost destroyed by the thieves and then reconstructed, her face was left original. Her face shows that she is a mother who suffers and who understands her children’s pain.