Things to do in Częstochowa
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Monastery of Jasna Góra
Impressive though it is, the exterior of Monastery of Jasna Góra gives little indication of the grandeur layered behind its walls. Exploring this functioning monastery gives a fascinating insight into its history, and a deep appreciation for its present day relevance. Arrive early and take your time.
You are free to wander around the complex at your own leisure (crowds permitting). Audio guides are available for four routes; the most important covers the main sanctuary and takes 45 minutes.
In the oldest part of the complex, the Chapel of Our Lady (Kaplica Cudownego Obrazu) contains the revered Black Madonna.The picture is ceremoniously unveiled at 06:00 and 13:30 (14:00 …
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Olsztyn Castle
A visit to the Olsztyn Castle ruins, 11km east of Częstochowa, is a refreshing trip out of town…if you find dungeons refreshing. The castle was built in the 14th century by King Casmir the Great and fell into ruins after it was destroyed by the Swedes in 1655.
Take city bus 58 or 67 from ul Piłsudskiego opposite the train station. Alternatively, walk along the Trail of the Eagles' Nests, which starts from Plac Daszyńskiego and leads via Olsztyn up to Kraków.
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600th Anniversary Museum
The 600th Anniversary Museum contains fascinating artefacts, including the founding documents of Jasna Góra from 1382 and a cross made from the steel of the World Trade Centre, destroyed in New York on 11 September 2001. Particularly moving are rosaries made from bread crumbs by concentration camp prisoners. Lech Wałęsa’s 1983 Nobel Peace Prize, donated by its recipient, can be found beyond the Father Kordecki Conference Room.
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St Barbara’s Church
The 17th-century St Barbara’s Church is 1km south of the monastery. Its location is believed to have been determined by the spring that emerged here when the Black Madonna needed to be washed after it was vandalised (it’s still bubbling away behind the church). This legend is depicted on the vault of the chapel.
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Chapel of Our Lady
In the oldest part of the complex, the Chapel of Our Lady contains the revered Black Madonna. The picture is ceremoniously unveiled at 6am and 1.30pm (2pm Saturday and Sunday) and veiled at noon and 9.20pm (1pm and 9.20pm Saturday and Sunday). Be sure to note the walls displaying votive offerings brought by pilgrims.
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Częstochowa Museum
In the neoclassical town hall, Częstochowa Museum, on Al NMP, contains paintings of Polish artists as well as extensive documentation detailing the history of Częstochowa and the region at large. Some of the collection is housed in the Częstochowa Museum outlet close to the monastery.
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Art Restaurant Stacherczak
An attempt to blend cuisine with culture, the Art Restaurant is a multitiered space offering innovative Asian-inspired platters, standard steaks and food of no particular genesis. The vibe is turned up a treat on weekends with musical performances.
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Viking Bar & Restaurant
This casual corner bar offers great value meals of pleasing proportions, and has a more refined adjoining restaurant. There are a few outdoor tables when the weather permits. You’ll have an English menu at dzień dobry.
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Monastery of Jasna Góra Belltower
The 106m Monastery of Jasna Góra Belltower, the tallest historic church tower in Poland, offers views over the monastery complex and the expanse of Al NMP. After falling many times over history, the current tower dates to 1906.
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Edo
Edo is a bold attempt at exoticism that seems to be paying off. Modern Japanese décor adds flavour to tempura, salads and sushi dishes, while Polish waiters in Japanese attire are a new take on the Far East.
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Belltower
The tallest historic church tower in Poland, offers views over the monastery complex and the expanse of Al NMP. After falling many times over history, the current tower dates to 1906.
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Café 29
Warm on the inside, cool on the outside, Café 29 attracts the sleek young things of Częstochowa, who mellow over smoothies (6zł) and pizzas (from 12zł).
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Sphinx
Sphinx is a reliable chain restaurant serving solid meat and salad meals in the pleasant (though often loud) surrounds of Egyptian bling.
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A Blikle
Dangerously good pastries on the main thoroughfare or in the courtyard.
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Cleopatra
Kebab, pizza and sandwich staples with a prime view of the monastery.
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