Europe's tallest statue of the Virgin Mary unveiled in Poland

On August 15, 2026, the village of Konotopie in Poland hosted the inauguration of a 55.6-meter statue of the Virgin Mary, now recognized as the tallest religious statue in Europe. The monument, situated in a rural area, consists of a figure atop a 15-meter crown-shaped base and features an observation deck for visitors.

The project was fully funded by Polish entrepreneurs Roman and Grazyna Karkosik as a gesture of religious devotion. The consecration ceremony was led by Bishop Krzysztof Wedkowski of the Diocese of Wloclawek. Notable attendees included former Polish President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Walesa. During the event, helicopters scattered rose petals over the attendees, followed by a mass and traditional cultural performances.

The structure surpasses the height of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro (38 meters) and the Christ the King monument in Swiebodzin (52.5 meters). Local authorities and residents of the small community of 130 people hope the landmark will establish Konotopie as a significant center for Catholic pilgrimage.