The Divine Mercy Sanctuary was originally built as part of the monastery complex of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy. Since the beatification of St. Faustina in 1993, her remains have rested on the altar below the image of Divine Mercy, a depiction of Jesus based on the vision she is said to have had. After visiting the church, stop by the attached tower for fantastic views of the city, or check out the adjacent St. Sister Faustina’s House, which displays everyday objects from the nun’s life.
To learn more about St. Faustina and Cardinal Karol Wojtyła (later Pope John Paul II), who designated the church as a shrine and initiated the construction of the modern basilica, join one of the several guided tours in and around Krakow that are focused on Catholic history.
Located on the southern outskirts of Krakow, the Divine Mercy Sanctuary is around 20 minutes from Old Town by public transit. Take tram 8, 19, or 22, and get off at the Sanktuarium Bożego Miłosierdzia station.
The basilica and viewing tower are typically open during daytime hours—get there before noon to beat the biggest crowds. The Eternal Adoration Chapel is open around the clock, but St. Faustina’s tomb can be seen during certain hours only. Travelers are requested to avoid visiting during Mass.
Visitors wanting to extend their experience can stay overnight at the Divine Mercy Sanctuary, as the nuns run a hostel in a converted building in their convent. Another lodging option is the modern Pastoral Lodge (Dom Pielgrzyma), also situated on the premises.
