Jasna Gora

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We departed at 7:30a to visit the monastery at JASNA GORA that stood against Swedish forces during the 17th century religious wars. It was beautiful inside with much gold decoration and had so many rooms to see and we were guided by a monk. We saw the Black Madonna which has become the national symbol of Poland. What I didn't like about it here was how commercialized it was for tourists. I felt uncomfortable walking along the sides (the entire group) with the guide, while many children of all ages stared at us, while a service was taking place, but found out it's normal. John Kennedy was here twice and Pope John Paul had services 6 times. We sat with Paul and Sharon from Australia and had chocolate ice cream and then were off to the next historical destination...

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