The basilica in Kodeń was endowed by the Prince Mikołaj Sapieha and built in the first half of the 17th century. The design of the church is attributed to the renowned architect, Jan Cangerle. Inside the church, there are stupendous stucco-works representing Lublin Renaissance and ornamenting the vaults of the chapels, presbytery and the aisle. The baroque facade dates back to the beginning of the 18th century.

The believers are drawn to this church by the famous for the miracles image of the Gregorian Mother of God, also known as the Mother of God of Kodeń – the Queen of Podlasie. The painting was brought to Kodeń in 1631 and was originally placed in the papal  chapel in Rome.

In the years 1875-1917 the church fulfilled the function of an Orthodox church. When it was given back to the Catholics, in 1923 it was elevated to the status of Minor Basilica.

Behind the church, in the monastery of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, there is a Museum of Ornithology and Mission.