The sanctuary was founded in 1676 as a thank-offering for the recovery of the Polish King Jan III Sobieski after a hunting accident.
It is one of the oldest preserved wooden churches in the Łódź region.
The interior contains a 17th-century altar with the venerated painting of St. Anthony, brought to Łagiewniki by the Franciscan monks.
The complex includes the 'Chapel in the Woods' (Kaplica w Lesie), which is built over a source of water traditionally believed to have healing properties.
The church was constructed using the blockhouse (zrębowy) technique, typical of traditional Polish carpentry.
The site survived the partitions of Poland and both World Wars without major structural destruction.
It sits within the boundaries of the Łagiewniki Forest, one of the largest urban forests in Europe.
The monastery complex functions as a religious retreat center for various groups.
Sanktuarium św. Antoniego Padewskiego is a historic wooden church complex located within the Łagiewniki Forest in northern Łódź. Established in the late 17th century, the site features a unique wooden structure built on a Greek cross plan. It serves as a Franciscan sanctuary, housing a miraculous painting of Saint Anthony of Padua. The complex includes the main wooden church, a brick monastery, and a nearby chapel situated over a miraculous spring. The architectural style represents a classic example of late 17th-century wooden sacred construction in Poland. It remains an active religious site managed by the Order of Friars Minor Conventual. The surrounding forest environment contributes to the preservation of its quiet, secluded character.
The front exterior of the wooden church provides the most authentic perspective, particularly in the morning light filtering through the forest trees.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding Łagiewniki Forest trails.
Bring a bottle if you wish to collect water from the nearby outdoor spring area.
Visit the secondary brick chapel located in the woods to experience the full extent of the sanctuary grounds.
Do not attempt to access the monastery private quarters, as this is a cloistered space for the resident friars.
Modest dress is required; ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Maintain silence inside the wooden church.
