Csíksomlyó

Csíksomlyó is a sacred mountain and a pilgrimage site located near Csíkszereda (now Miercurea Ciuc) in Romania. It is particularly significant for the Székely people and is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage destinations in Hungary and its historical territories. The name Csíksomlyó translates to "Csík's valley of sorrow."

The centerpiece of Csíksomlyó is the Church of the Assumption of Mary, a Franciscan monastery and basilica that has been a focal point for religious devotion for centuries. The site is most famous for its annual Pentecost pilgrimage, which draws hundreds of thousands of people from Hungary, Romania, and beyond. This pilgrimage is one of the largest religious gatherings in Central Europe.

The history of Csíksomlyó dates back to the medieval period. Legend attributes the origins of the pilgrimage to a vision of the Virgin Mary seen by shepherds. The current church structure, built in the Gothic style, was largely completed in the 15th century, although it has undergone renovations over time. The church houses a revered statue of the Virgin Mary, often referred to as the "Queen of the Csík Land."

The pilgrimage is characterized by a procession and Mass held on the mountain's slope. Participants often walk long distances to reach the site, carrying religious symbols and banners. The event is not only a spiritual occasion but also a significant cultural expression for the Székely community, reaffirming their identity and heritage. Csíksomlyó represents a deep-rooted spiritual and cultural tradition.