A monumental project is underway near the town of Kikól, Poland, where one of the tallest statues of the Virgin Mary ever built is set to rise. Spearheaded by billionaire Roman Karkosik and his wife, the planned 180-foot (55-meter) statue will soar above the landscape, making it a stunning tribute to faith and heritage. When completed, it will far surpass the height of Brazil’s world-famous Christ the Redeemer, which stands at 98 feet (30 meters).
A Towering Vision of Mary
The statue will feature an impressive 50-foot crown, while the figure of the Virgin Mary herself will reportedly stand at 131 feet, with her hands open and her head gently inclined downward. The pose is intended to instill a sense of maternal welcome and peace. The base of the statue will serve as a panoramic viewing terrace, offering visitors sweeping views of the surrounding landscape -- making it both a spiritual and visual experience.
According to Metro UK, Renata Gołębiewska, the mayor of Kikól, confirmed the project’s progress, stating:
“In 2023, the Kikól City and Commune Office received an application for issuing development conditions for the construction of a viewing area with a statue of the Virgin Mary, along with a social and technical building and land development.”
Construction has already begun, with demolition work clearing the site in preparation for this monumental undertaking.
The project’s backer, Roman Karkosik, is one of Poland’s wealthiest individuals and a prominent industrialist, best known as the founder and majority shareholder of Boryszew, a major industrial group. While the exact cost of the statue has not been publicly disclosed, the statue is apparently intended as an expression of gratitude for the town of Kikól -- where Karkosik and his wife reside -- and as a future place of pilgrimage and reflection.
Why do monumental religious statues matter?
Large religious statues have long captured the imagination of people around the world. They serve as powerful visual reminders of faith, culture, and shared identity. Beyond their religious significance, they often become iconic landmarks, drawing tourists and pilgrims alike.
For Catholics, Marian devotion holds a special place in the heart of spiritual life. Monumental statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary provide not only a place for prayer and contemplation but also a visible expression of the deep veneration Catholics have for the Mother of God.
In a time when rapid modern development can sometimes overshadow spiritual heritage, such statues help anchor communities to their traditions and faith. They remind the faithful of enduring values and offer a sense of comfort and hope.
Other record-breaking Catholic statues
Poland’s Marian statue will join the ranks of some of the world’s most impressive Catholic religious monuments:
In Catamarca, Argentina, the world’s largest statue of the Virgin Mary was inaugurated on September 7, 2023. Standing at 48 meters (157 feet) tall, the breathtaking sculpture of “Nuestra Señora del Valle” (Our Lady of the Valley) was unveiled on the “Día del Milagro” (Day of the Miracle), a date of great significance for the local community.
Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the most iconic Catholic statues globally. Standing 98 feet (30 meters) tall atop the Corcovado Mountain, the statue has become a symbol of both faith and the city itself.
The Virgin of Peace in Trujillo, Venezuela, stands at 46 meters (150 feet) and holds the distinction of being one of the tallest statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the world.
How does it compare?
To put Poland’s planned statue into perspective, its height of 180 feet (55 meters) is comparable to some iconic global landmarks. For instance, it will be about as tall as the Leaning Tower of Pisa (183 feet) and nearly as towering as the Cinderella Castle at Disney World, which stands at 189 feet.
A future landmark for pilgrimage and reflection
This grand statue in Kikól is expected to become a significant site for both religious pilgrims and tourists alike. In a country where Catholicism plays a central role, this tribute to the Virgin Mary will further cement Poland’s reputation as a hub of Marian devotion. From the famed Black Madonna of Częstochowa to countless shrines and chapels dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, this new statue will stand as a beacon of faith and a testament to Poland’s enduring Catholic identity.
As construction continues, Catholics and admirers of monumental art worldwide can look forward to witnessing the completion of what promises to be one of the most striking tributes to the Mother of God in modern times.
