Europe’s tallest statue of Mary was officially blessed on August 15 in Konotopie, Poland. Standing over 55 meters (180 feet) tall—surpassing famous global landmarks like Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer—the monumental statue of Our Lady of Mercy features open arms inviting pilgrims into prayer, along with a viewing terrace located more than 15 meters above the ground. The site expands upon a local tradition of devotion, standing adjacent to a historic chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows where faithful travelers have gathered for decades.
During the consecration ceremony, Bishop Krzysztof Wętkowski of the Diocese of Włocławek emphasized the spiritual significance of the new monument, describing it as a sanctified place meant to lift people’s thoughts toward God. Drawing a parallel to Pope Leo XIV’s reflections at Barcelona’s Sagrada Família, the Bishop noted that while many today remain fixated on earthly concerns, Mary’s open arms serve as a reminder to look upward toward heaven. The title “Our Lady of Mercy” carries deep local roots as well, connecting directly to the diocese where St. Faustina Kowalska, the Apostle of Divine Mercy, was born and baptized.
Built as a personal votive offering of gratitude, the project was initiated, designed, and fully funded by Grażyna and Roman Karkosik. Bishop Wętkowski expressed formal appreciation during his homily to the founders, architects, and builders whose efforts brought the monumental vision to life, establishing a lasting sanctuary of faith and reflection for generations of pilgrims to come.