Europe’s tallest Virgin Mary statue unveiled in small Polish village

A 56-metre statue of the Virgin Mary has been unveiled in the small Polish village of Konotopie. The monument, funded by a local couple, is considered the tallest of its kind in Europe.
Why it matters
The statue highlights the intersection of religious tradition and modern monumental architecture in rural Poland, drawing attention from high-profile figures like Lech Wałęsa.
The 55.6-metre statue of the Virgin Mary towers over the village of Konotopie, Poland. Photograph: Adam Burakowski/East News/Shutterstock The 55.6-metre statue of the Virgin Mary towers over the village of Konotopie, Poland. Photograph: Adam Burakowski/East News/Shutterstock Poland Europe’s tallest Virgin Mary statue unveiled in small Polish village Hundreds watched the 56-metre monument’s consecration, including anti-communist leader Lech Wałęsa
Prefer the Guardian on Google An enormous statue of the Virgin Mary that is believed to be Europe’s tallest was inaugurated on Saturday in a small Polish village, in the presence of the anti-communist leader Lech Wałęsa.
Hundreds of people took part in the consecration of the monument, which towers 55.6 metres (182ft) over Konotopie in central Poland , a village of fewer than 150 people.
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