On Sunday afternoon, April 27, 2025, the Pijarskie Schools of Queen of Peace in Łowicz was packed with spectators eager to witness the unique play titled "Bolesław Chrobry and the Secrets of the Millennium." Featuring 50 young actors and vocalists, the performance showcased a vibrant spectacle that intertwined history, humor, and reflection. This event was part of nationwide celebrations marking the Year of Bolesław Chrobry, declared by the Senate of the Republic of Poland in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the coronation of the first king of Poland.
The play, inspired by historical facts yet rich with contemporary references and humorous situations, tells the story of a class that unexpectedly gets involved in unusual events during a museum visit. Audiences followed the adventures of students, a bewildered history teacher, and an energetic educator as they attempted to keep pace with the unfolding story—both in the museum and in life itself. The production effectively blended education with entertainment, providing insight into the era of Chrobry while delivering a dose of good humor.
The performance was met with enthusiasm, receiving standing ovations and words of appreciation from the audience. It was not just an artistic endeavor but also a patriotic encounter with history, leaving a lasting impression on those present. The play served as a tribute to the great ruler while also being an excellent lesson in history, where education and art came together.
Meanwhile, in Gniezno, Cardinal Kazimierz Nycz emphasized the enduring relevance of the ruler's servant role in collaboration with the people for the common good, 1000 years after Bolesław Chrobry's coronation. On the same day, he presided over a mass in the Gniezno Archcathedral during the feast of St. Wojciech, the patron of Poland. This year's celebrations were particularly significant, coinciding with the 1000th anniversary of Bolesław Chrobry's coronation and the 1025th anniversary of the existence of the Archdiocese and Metropolis of Gniezno.
During his sermon, Cardinal Nycz highlighted that Bolesław Chrobry was anointed and crowned king in the Gniezno Cathedral, with the Pope's approval, marking the first coronation "in the Polish coronation rite." He noted that the coronator asked the future ruler about his readiness to serve in faith, govern justly, and defend the kingdom. The cardinal pointed out that this meant Poland was an independent Christian state, with the political community expected to collaborate with the ruler as their servant for the common good.
Reflecting on the historical context of Bolesław Chrobry's coronation, Cardinal Nycz dedicated part of his sermon to St. Wojciech, whose martyrdom laid the foundation for the Gniezno metropolis, symbolizing Poland's belonging to the Christian world. He emphasized that Bolesław Chrobry's rise to royal dignity was made possible thanks to St. Wojciech, who preached the Gospel even in difficult circumstances.
In March 2025, Pope Francis appointed Cardinal Nycz as a papal legate for the anniversary celebrations. In a letter, the Pope mentioned the 1025th anniversary of the Congress of Gniezno, which established the first metropolitan archdiocese in Poland and facilitated Bolesław Chrobry's coronation, aided by the "heavenly intercession" of St. Wojciech.
Celebrations in Gniezno included a procession with the relics of St. Wojciech, which took place on April 27, 2025. The procession featured representatives from various sectors, including state officials, organizations, and the youth, all walking together towards the cathedral. This year's mass was celebrated in the Primate's Basilica, marking a special occasion due to the anniversary of the royal coronations.
As part of the mass, Archbishop Antonio Guido Filipazzi presented missionary crosses to ten missionaries who will serve in various countries, including Uzbekistan, Bolivia, and Zambia. This ceremony, initiated by Pope John Paul II during his visit to Gniezno in 1979, has become a tradition during the annual celebrations.
In a related event, a performance titled "Coronation" dedicated to the symbolism of Bolesław Chrobry's coronation will be showcased in Lublin on May 11, 2025. The performance draws from historical texts and fairy tale motifs, aiming to convey the significance of the first king of Poland's coronation. The script, created by director Michał Chorosiński, incorporates fragments from chronicles by Gall Anonim and other historical sources. The event will also feature live music performed by a choir and orchestra.
Chorosiński expressed pride in the legacy of Bolesław Chrobry, stating, "1000 years ago, our first king was crowned. This is a reason for pride that we want to convey to our audience." The performance is set to begin at 7:00 PM, following a mass in the Lublin Archcathedral and a ceremonial march through the city.
As Poland commemorates a millennium since the coronation of Bolesław Chrobry, it reflects on the profound impact of this historical moment. Bolesław Chrobry's reign marked the beginning of Poland's journey as a recognized entity in international politics, transitioning from a tribal society to a kingdom. His coronation, occurring after years of political maneuvering and military conflict, solidified Poland's status as an independent Christian state.
In summary, the celebrations surrounding the 1000th anniversary of Bolesław Chrobry's coronation are not only a tribute to a significant historical figure but also an opportunity for reflection on Poland's past, present, and future. As the nation honors its roots, it also embraces the values of unity, cooperation, and service to the common good, principles that remain as relevant today as they were a millennium ago.
