Christianization of Poland
The Christianization of Poland refers to the introduction and subsequent spread of Christianity in Poland. The impetus to the process was the Baptism of Poland, the personal baptism of Mieszko I, the first ruler of the future Polish state, and much of his court. The ceremony took place on Holy Saturday, 14 April 966, although the exact location is disputed by historians, with the cities of Poznań and Gniezno being the most likely sites. Mieszko's wife, Dobrawa of Bohemia, is often seen as a major influence on Mieszko's decision to accept Christianity.
Christianization of Poland A.D. 966. by Jan Matejko
Dobrawa, Mieszko's wife who played a major role in Poland's conversion to Christianity.
Mieszko I, the first Christian ruler of Poland. Depicted by Jan Matejko as holding a crucifix in an allusion to the Baptism of Poland.
Contemporary mural in Gniezno commemorating the baptism of Poland.
Religion in Poland is rapidly declining, although historically it had been one of the most Catholic countries in the world.
St. Florian's Roman Catholic Cathedral in Warsaw. A large majority of ethnic Poles are adherents of the Catholic branch of Christianity.
St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral in Poznań
St. Anna's Catholic Church in Warsaw-Wilanów
Old Catholic Mariavite Temple of Mercy and Charity in Płock
