Best attractions and places to see around gmina gmina Kolno are found in the Podlaskie Voivodeship of northeastern Poland. This region is characterized by its landscapes of forests and lakes, offering diverse natural features. Gmina Kolno also encompasses historical landmarks and cultural sites, providing a range of points of interest for visitors. The area retains elements of its medieval urban layout and features various religious and historical monuments.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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Święta Lipka, although a small village in Kętrzyn County (Reszel commune), is known throughout Poland, thanks to the famous Marian Sanctuary. The Święta Lipka Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, together with the cloister and monastery, is a Baroque monument. Since 2018, it has had the status of a historical monument. The beginning of the cult of the Mother of God in Święta Lipka dates back to the early 14th century. According to legend, a prisoner sentenced by the court in Kętrzyn placed a figure of the Mother of God on a lime tree, and thanks to the prayers offered to her, he was pardoned. Since then, pilgrims have been coming to the village not only from Warmia, but also from further afield, e.g. from Warsaw, Białystok, and even Vilnius.
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There is a restaurant in the castle courtyard - good food, decent beer.
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The pilgrimage route from Reszel to Święty Lipka - the road from Reszel to Święty Lipka is approx. 6 km long with Baroque roadside shrines. It is also an excellent bicycle path. From the 15th century, pilgrims walked the route in "losiers" to the Marian Sanctuary in Święty Lipka. After the Prussian homage, the route connected Catholic Warmia with Protestant Masuria. In the times of bishop Krzysztof Andrzej Szembek, in the years 1733-1735, baroque rosary chapels made of sandstone were built on both sides of the route, made in 1734 by the German sculptor Jan Frey together with Jan Schmidt. Along the avenue there are ancient lime trees - natural monuments. Both the chapels and linden trees are entered in the register of monuments.
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The castle in Reszel was built in the years 1350–1401. It was repeatedly besieged and captured several times by the Polish and Teutonic armies. In the years 1594–1597, the stronghold was transformed into a residence.
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Świętolipska basilica - Marian Sanctuary of St. Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The beginnings of the cult of the Mother of God in Święty Lipka date back to the 14th century. According to an oral legend, a convict imprisoned in the dungeon of the church in Kętrzyn, thanks to the inspiration of the Mother of God, carved a figure of Madonna and Child in wood. After the sculpture was made, he was released and hung his statue on a lime tree by the road from Kętrzyn to Reszel. The sculpture of the Mother of God with the Child became famous for its miracles. With time, a chapel was built around the lime tree. The current Baroque church was erected on the initiative of the Jesuits in the years 1688–1693. Further buildings were built gradually in the 18th century.
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Święta Lipka is one of the most famous Polish Marian pilgrimage sites and is popular with pilgrims and tourists alike. In the village, which was East Prussian until 1945, the baroque pilgrimage church of Heiligenlinde was built by Jesuits.[3] The basilica with a cloister and a monastery is one of the most important Baroque monuments in northern Poland. The Pope elevated it to the rank of minor basilica in 1983 (Wikipedia).
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Be sure to take part in the morning organ concert. The sound of the organ and the acoustics are outstanding. When the organist played the Eurovision anthem at the end, she gave goose bumps!
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There is an artist hotel in the castle, which can be recognized by the excellent, tasteful furnishings in the rooms. The church next to the castle is by Georg-Friedrich Schinkel.
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Gmina Kolno and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the impressive Reszel Castle, a former German Order stronghold now serving as a hotel and museum. The region also features numerous historic churches, such as the classical-style St. Anne's Church in Kolno, the Parish Church of the Holy Trinity in Borkowo, and the 19th-century church in Lachowo. Don't miss the medieval urban layout of Kolno around Plac Wolności, or the Jewish Cemetery and Synagogue in Kolno, which reflect the area's diverse past. Early medieval strongholds in Truszki Zalesie and Czerwone also offer a glimpse into ancient times.
Yes, Gmina Kolno is home to important religious sites. The Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Święta Lipka is a renowned Baroque pilgrimage church and one of Poland's most famous Marian sanctuaries. You can also experience the historical Pilgrimage Route from Reszel to Święta Lipka with Baroque Wayside Chapels, a 6 km path lined with sandstone chapels and ancient lime trees, which is also popular for cycling.
The region is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, characterized by extensive forests and numerous lakes. The Dajna River Near Kiersztanowo is a notable natural feature, flowing between Lake Juno and Lake Kiersztanowskie. Nearby, you can explore the Uroczysko Dzierzbia Nature Reserve, which protects diverse wetland and forest ecosystems, and the Protected Landscape Area of Kurpie Plain and Lower Narew Valley. Gmina Kolno also boasts natural monuments like ancient elms in Kozioł and a wild apple tree in Zabiele, as well as a large glacial erratic near Wincenta.
Gmina Kolno offers various outdoor activities, especially cycling and running. The Pilgrimage Route from Reszel to Święta Lipka is an excellent cycling path. For more options, you can explore several routes for gravel biking, running, and general cycling, which take you through the scenic landscapes of the region.
Many attractions in Gmina Kolno are suitable for families. Historical sites like Reszel Castle and the Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Święta Lipka offer educational and engaging experiences. Natural spots like the Dajna River Near Kiersztanowo provide opportunities for enjoying nature. The Pilgrimage Route from Reszel to Święta Lipka is also a pleasant path for family walks or bike rides.
Beyond the main historical sites, Gmina Kolno offers several unique cultural points of interest. You can see the historic narrow-gauge railway in Kolno, featuring a locomotive, wagon, and semaphore. The Wiatrak Holender (Dutch Windmill) in Janowo is another distinctive attraction. Additionally, the region has various monuments, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Monument to NSZZ Solidarność, commemorating significant historical events.
Yes, Gmina Kolno holds remnants of World War II history. The area conceals shelters that are part of the Molotov Line fortifications, as well as bunkers near Kozioł. The Galindestellung - Kozioł Resistance Point includes well-preserved passive and combat shelters built by the Third Reich in 1940 to protect the bridge over the Pisa River, offering a glimpse into wartime defenses.
Recent archaeological research at Kolno Castle has unearthed a wealth of artifacts. These include a 600-year-old amethyst jewel, thousands of pottery fragments, and unique military items such such as bolts and protective armor, along with coins. These findings provide valuable insights into the lives of the castle's inhabitants and its historical significance.
Yes, Gmina Kolno is close to several protected natural areas. The Uroczysko Dzierzbia Nature Reserve, located within Kolno County, is dedicated to protecting deciduous forests and various wetland ecosystems. Additionally, the western part of the gmina is part of the Protected Landscape Area of Kurpie Plain and Lower Narew Valley, recognized for its natural value and forming a fragment of the former Kurpie Forest.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance, religious heritage, and natural beauty. The Reszel Castle is noted for its historical importance and its current function as a hotel and museum. The Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Święta Lipka is admired for its Baroque architecture and as a significant pilgrimage site. The scenic Pilgrimage Route is also highly valued for its historical chapels and as an excellent cycling path.
Yes, Gmina Kolno features several historical dwelling complexes. Notable examples include the manor complex in Glinki, with a manor house from the late 19th century and an accompanying park, and the manor complex in Lachowo, which also comprises a manor house and park dating from the 19th-20th centuries. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's aristocratic past.
The region's beautiful landscapes of forests and lakes are particularly appealing during the warmer months, from spring through early autumn. This period is ideal for cycling along routes like the Pilgrimage Route, exploring natural reserves, and visiting historical sites. The weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.


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