I live in Częstochowa, a city that is famous for its monastery: Jasna Góra. It is situated higher than the rest of the city and it is easily visible. The whole sanctuary is very beautiful. It is a very famous place both in Poland and in other countries.
Inside the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Jasna Góra there is a famous, miraculous painting of Madonna with Child, Our Lady and the Queen of Poland. Many pilgrims come to Jasna Góra in order to see this picture. Another interesting place is the Basilica of the Holy Cross and the Birth of the Virgin Mary that is next to the Chapel. People who come to Jasna Góra may also visit the Arsenal, the Treasury and the Museum. Inside the Treasury there are many objects - things offered up as a sacrifice to Madonna. There are also some holy relics. There are other object connected with religion, like statutes of saints, angels, ornaments, pictures of religious scenes and monstrance.
There are three exhibitions inside the Arsenal. There are: an exhibition of old weapon and armour, the history of the fortress of Jasna Góra and objects offered by military commanders, kings, leaders of the armed forces and individual soldiers.
From the top of the tower one can see the beautiful panorama of the city. The sight is impressive and I recommend going there and seeing it through ones own eyes. The city is very nice, especially the surroundings of the complex. The avenue of the Virgin Mary connects the monastery to the old town.
Częstochowa may not be as popular among the tourist like Cracow but it is definitely worth seeing. It is a target of many pilgrimages, especially in summer.
