The heart of Lichen Stary beats to the rhythm of prayers raised in the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lichen. This impressive shrine, considered the largest in Poland and the sixth largest in the world, is not only a place of worship, but also a remarkable work of architecture.

The basilica, located at 4 Klasztorna Street, 62-563 Lichen Stary, impresses with its monumentality from afar. Its golden body, changing shades depending on the intensity of the light, is a dominant feature of the landscape and attracts the eyes of pilgrims and tourists.

To reach the sanctuary, the most convenient way is by car, traveling along the national road No. 25 or the A2 highway, from which one should exit at the Słupca interchange. For those using public transportation, the nearest train station is in Konin, from where buses run to Licheń Stary.

The interior of the basilica delights with a wealth of ornamentation and detail. The marble floor forms a beautiful mosaic, and the walls are decorated with numerous ornaments. Attention is drawn to the impressive dome and the powerful organ, which not only impresses with its appearance, but also sounds majestically during services.

The sanctuary is open daily, and admission is free. However, it is worth remembering that during the summer, especially on weekends and holidays, the place attracts many pilgrims, which may involve more crowds. For families with children, we recommend visiting on weekdays, when the atmosphere is quieter and more conducive to contemplation.

The sanctuary complex is not just the basilica itself. It is surrounded by extensive parks, a cemetery and the main square. It's worth setting aside three to four hours to explore the whole thing. It's an ideal place for a quiet family walk, during which you can admire not only the architecture, but also the beauty of nature.

The history of the Sanctuary in Licheń Stary dates back to the early 19th century and is closely linked to Marian apparitions. The first one took place in 1813, when Tomasz Klossowski, a wounded soldier in the Napoleonic army, experienced a vision of Our Lady. The next apparitions occurred between 1850 and 1852, and were witnessed by a shepherd named Mikolaj Sikatka.

These events initiated the cult of Our Lady of Lichen and contributed to the establishment of the sanctuary. The present basilica was erected as a votive offering of the Polish nation on the occasion of the 2000th anniversary of Christianity, and is a testimony to the faith and craftsmanship of its contemporary builders.

For pilgrims and those seeking a spiritual experience, the Sanctuary in Licheń Stary offers many opportunities. Masses are held here daily, and in special chapels one can participate in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. It is worth noting the miraculous image of Our Lady of Licheń, which is the center of worship at the shrine.

For families with children, the sanctuary has prepared special tours adapted to different age groups. The youngest can participate in interactive workshops, during which they will learn about the history of the apparitions and religious symbolism in an accessible way. It is worth remembering to dress appropriately - modestly and in accordance with the nature of the place.

Surrounding the sanctuary are extensive green areas, ideal for a picnic or a rest after sightseeing. Also nearby is Mary's Spring, where pilgrims come for water considered miraculous.

For those interested in history and religious art, the shrine offers guided tours. During such a tour, one can learn details about the architecture, religious symbolism and the history of miracles associated with the site.

It is worth noting that the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lichen is a disabled-friendly place. The grounds are adapted to the needs of people in wheelchairs, and special signage and information boards have been prepared for the visually impaired.

Lichen Stary, although known mainly for the sanctuary, offers many other attractions worth discovering during a family trip. One place worth a visit is the Fr. Joseph Jarzębowski Museum, where you can learn about the history of the region and the sanctuary. The museum is located within the complex and is open to the public during the shrine's opening hours.

For nature lovers, the area around Lichen Stary offers scenic walking and biking trails. It's worth taking a stroll along Lichen Lake, which is only a few kilometers from the sanctuary. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Families with children will appreciate a visit to the Park Miniatur Mikroskala, located in nearby Konin. It's a place where you can admire miniatures of the most important monuments from all over the world, including, of course, the Licheń Basilica.

For those seeking additional spiritual experiences, we recommend visiting the nearby Sanctuary of St. Joseph in Kalisz, which is about 70 kilometers from Lichen Stary. It is a place of special devotion to St. Joseph in Poland and makes an interesting addition to the pilgrimage.

Returning to Lichen Stary itself, the local gastronomy is worth mentioning. There are several restaurants and cafes in the vicinity of the sanctuary, where you can taste traditional food from Wielkopolska. We especially recommend trying the local bakery products, which are very popular among pilgrims.

When planning accommodation, consider one of the many options available in Licheń Stary. From simple guest rooms to more luxurious hotels, there is something for everyone. Many accommodations offer special packages for families, which include not only lodging, but also meals and additional activities.

When visiting Lichen Stary and its sanctuary, remember to respect the sacredness of the place. It is not only a tourist attraction, but first and foremost a place of prayer and reflection for many of the faithful. Let's maintain silence in appropriate places and conform to the rules here.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lichen and Lichen Stary are places that offer a unique combination of spirituality, history and the tranquility of a small town. Whether we are pilgrims or simply looking for an interesting place to spend a weekend, Lichen Stary will certainly not disappoint us. It is a trip that can become not only a lesson in history and culture, but also an opportunity for tranquility and reflection in the beautiful surroundings of the Greater Poland countryside.