World Heritage Sites Archives - Poland Tourist Information

Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska

Wooden churches

Wooden churches – updated 10 January 2023.

The Wooden Churches of Southern Małopolska inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list are located in: Binarowa (ca 1500), Blizne (mid-15^th century.), Dębno (1335), Haczów (14^th/15^th century), Lipnica Murowana (end of 15^th century) and Sękowa (1520). They were built using the horizontal log technique and represent outstanding examples of the different aspects of medieval church-building traditions in Roman Catholic culture.

These old wooden Gothic churches were all located within the historic region of Małopolska in southern and south-eastern Poland and were sponsored by families of nobility as symbols of their prestige.

Horizontal Log Technique

The horizontal log technique was commonplace in Northern and Eastern Europe during the Middle Ages. The wooden church style of the region was Gothic ornament and painted detail and was very different to the style of stone and brick buildings at the time due to the timber construction, structure and form of the churches.

The form of the churches was influenced by the Greco-Catholic and Orthodox presence in the region. They had an extensive spatial structure initially consisting of a rectangular nave and a narrower chancel to the east, usually terminating in a three-sided apse. Chambered towers of post-and-beam construction were added at the west end later on.

Advanced joinery

The standard of joinery was of the highest quality and the use of advanced joinery solutions allowed for a system of roof trusses binding the log structures of the nave and chancel resulting in tall, shingled roofs.

The Wooden Churches of Southern Małopolska all exhibit diverse techniques and styles of workmanship, rich iconography, outstanding artistic quality and boast valuable décors and fittings.

The oldest church is the 15^th century church in Haczów, made of fir-wood and covered with shingles.

The church at Binarowa boasts a very precious wall painting depicting scenes from the New Testament and a carved wood figure of Madonna from the 14^th century.

The majority of the wooden churches are located in picturesque mountain valleys and the six trails on the Route of Timber Architecture in the Małopolska region are over 1500km long. They feature 232 timber constructions including 123 Roman Catholic churches, 39 Orthodox churches, 25 rural and small-town complexes, and 27 rural architecture museums that comprise 9 skansens and 14 country manors.

FAQ

Q: What are the Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska?

A: The Wooden Churches are a group of 15 medieval churches that are located in the southern part of the Malopolska region of Poland. They are characterized by their unique wooden architecture and are considered to be some of the most valuable examples of medieval wooden church architecture in Europe. These churches were built by local communities in the 16th and 17th century, and are notable for their intricate and ornate design, as well as for their historical and cultural significance.

Q: What are the characteristics of these Wooden Churches?

A: These churches are characterized by their wooden structure and the ornate decorations on their exteriors and interiors. Many of them have tall spires, multiple towers, and richly decorated facades. They are usually painted in bright colors and adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting scenes from the Bible or local folklore. The interiors are usually decorated with biblical scenes and religious motifs, often painted in a vivid colors. The technical characteristics of these churches also make them interesting, many of them were built using the technique of log construction, but others were built using wooden frame construction, and they offer a great example of how these ancient techniques were used.

Q: How can I visit the Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska?

A: The churches are open to visitors and can be visited during the daytime. The opening hours of the churches vary, so it is best to check the information on the official website or contact the church directly for more information. Some of the churches are located in remote areas and are difficult to reach by public transportation, so it is recommended to have your own means of transportation, or to consider joining a guided tour.

Q: Are there any guided tours available?

A: Yes, there are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the Wooden Churches of Southern Malopolska. These tours typically include visits to several of the churches, and provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history, architecture and cultural significance of the churches. Some tours also include other nearby attractions, such as castles and historical towns, which can give visitors a more comprehensive understanding of the region’s culture and history.

Q: Are there any other nearby attractions?

A: Yes, there are several other notable attractions in the southern Malopolska region, including:

The Castle of Sandomierz, which is a medieval castle that is located in the town of Sandomierz.
The Sanctuary of Divine Mercy, which is a modern pilgrimage site that is located in the town of Krakow-Lagiewniki.
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, which is a beautiful baroque pilgrimage site that is located in the town of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska
The Eagle Nests Trail, a beautiful hiking trail that runs through the region, passing by several castles and offering panoramic views of the countryside
The Salt Mine in Wieliczka, one of the most visited site in the region, a unique subterranean complex with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.

Wooden Churches Tour

What to expect from this tour

Highlights

Discover 4 UNESCO-listed wooden churches on a guided tour
Learn about the historical and cultural significance of these Gothic churches
Drive through villages of Lesser Poland and take in the Polish landscape

Description

Learn about the gems of Polish wooden architecture outside of Kraków. Visit several villages to see the collection of Gothic wooden churches designated UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Your guide/driver will pick you up at 8:00 AM from your accommodation in Kraków. The first town you will visit is Lipnica Murowana to see St. Leonard’s Church, which was built at the end of 15th century. This is 1 of 6 churches designated a UNESCO Wooden Church of Southern Lesser Poland.

Continue on to see 2 more churches on this UNESCO list, starting with St. Michael Archangel’s Church in Binarowa. This church, completed in 1500, features one of the most valuable appearances of late Gothic architecture in Poland. The third stop on the route is the village of Sękowa. See another example of Gothic wooden architecture at Saints Philip and James Church, built around 1520. This church is often named the “Pearl of Beskid Niski” due to its unique architecture.

Finally, head to Owczary, the last stop on the tour, where the Orthodox Protection of Our Most Holy Lady Church is located. Erected in the middle of the 17th century, this is one of the oldest Lemko churches and is listed on another UNESCO list: Wooden Tserkvas of the Carpathian Region in Poland and Ukraine. After touring these 4 remarkable, historical churches, return to Kraków where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.

Includes

Entrance fees
Driver/Guide
Pickup and drop-off
Transport by air-conditioned minibus

UNESCO World Heritage site wooden churches

polandtravel

March 26, 2021

Wooden Tserkvas Of The Carpathian Region

Wooden Tserkvas

Wooden Tserkvas – updated 09 January 2023.

The tserkvas Of The Carpathian Region were built between the 16th and 19th centuries by communities of Orthodox and Greek Catholic faiths. Sixteen tserkvas (churches) are listed by UNESCO of which eight are located in Poland and eight are located in Ukraine.

Complex structures

The tserkvas were built of horizontal logs and were complex structures constructed using distinct building traditions rooted in Orthodox ecclesiastic design interwoven with elements of local tradition. The wooden tserkvas were built on a tri-partite plan surmounted by open quadrilateral or octagonal domes and cupolas with wooden bell towers on the outside and iconostases and polychrome decorations in the inside.

Outside, they had churchyards, gatehouses and graveyards bounded by perimeter walls or fences and gates, often surrounded by trees.

Carpentry skills

Exceptional carpentry skills were required to construct the tserkvas particularly for the complex corner jointing that was required. The tserkvas were raised on wooden sills placed on stone foundations, with wooden shingles covering roofs and walls.

Poland

The tserkvas in Poland are the Tserkva of St Parascheva in Radruż, the Tserkva of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Chotyniec, the Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Smolnik, the Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Turzańsk (Podkarpackie Voivodeship), the Tserkva of St James the Less in Powroźnik, the Tserkva of the Virgin Mary’s Care in Owczary, the Tserkva of St Parascheva in Kwiatoń and the Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Brunary Wyżne (Małpolskie Voivodeship).

The 16 churches can be divided into four groups of different ethnographic architectural traditions.

The Tserkvas of the Carpathian Region in Poland and Ukraine were included on the World Heritage List in 2013 during the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee in Phnom Penh (dec. 37 COM 8B.37).

Buildings are available to visitors. The tserkvas in Radruz, Rohatyn and Drohobych are currently used as museums.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the wooden tserkvas (churches) of the Carpathian region:

Where are the tserkvas of the Carpathian region located?
The tserkvas are located in the Carpathian Mountains of Eastern Europe. They can be found in countries such as Poland, Ukraine, and Slovakia.

What is the history of the tserkvas?
The tserkvas have a long history dating back to the medieval period. They were built by the Eastern Orthodox and Greek Catholic communities of the region, and they were an important cultural and spiritual center for these communities. Many of the tserkvas are now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their architectural and historical significance.

Are the tserkvas of the Carpathian region open to the public?
Yes, many of the tserkvas are open to the public. Some are still used as places of worship, while others have been converted into museums or cultural centers.

Is there a cost to visit the wooden tserkvas?
There may be a fee to visit some of the tserkvas. The cost of admission varies depending on the specific tserkva and the type of tour or visit you choose.

Are there guided tours of the wooden tserkvas of the Carpathian region?
Yes, guided tours of the wooden tserkvas are available for visitors. The tours are typically offered in the local language, but English-language tours may also be available upon request.

Are the wooden tserkvas of the Carpathian region wheelchair accessible?
The accessibility of the tserkvas can vary. Some of the tserkvas may have stairs or other barriers that make them difficult to access for people with mobility impairments. It is recommended to contact the specific tserkva you plan to visit in advance to inquire about accessibility details.

the Tserkva of St James the Less in Powroźnik the Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Smolnik the Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Turzańsk (Podkarpackie Voivodeship)the Tserkva of St Parascheva in Kwiatoń the Tserkva of St Parascheva in Radruż the Tserkva of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Chotyniec the Tserkva of the Virgin Mary’s Care in Owczary Tserkva of St Michael the Archangel in Brunary Wyżne UNESCO World Heritage site

polandtravel

March 26, 2021

Old City of Zamosc

Zamosc Old City

Old City of Zamosc – updated 10 January 2023.

The Old City is the oldest historic district of the city of Zamość and is unique in Poland as an almost perfectly preserved example of 16th-century Renaissance town planning. It was made a Unesco World Heritage site in 1992. The district was named one of Poland’s official national Historic Monuments, as designated 16^th September 1994 and its listing is maintained by the National Heritage Board of Poland.

Ideal City

The Old City of Zamosc was founded in the 16^th century by a wealthy Polish nobleman, Jan Zamoyski (1542−1605), and was modelled on Italian theories of the ‘ideal city’. Jan hired a Paduan architect by the name of Bernando Morando to realise his dream.

The layout of the town was supposedly designed to resemble the human body with the palace as its head, Grodzka Street as the spine and side streets, such as Solna or Moranda acting as the arms.

International Trading centre

The city was located on the trade route linking western and northern Europe with the Black Sea and was an important multinational trading centre known for its high level of religious tolerance.

It has retained its original rectilinear street layout and fortifications and a large number of buildings that combine Italian and central European architectural traditions.

Pearl of the Renaissance

The city of Zamość is often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Renaissance’ and the ‘Padua of the North’ and has two distinct sections. To the east is the town, which is laid out around three market squares (the Grand Market Square, the Salt Market Square and the Water Market Square) and to the west is the Zamoyski palace.

The central Grand Market Square is located at the junction of the town’s two main axial streets. Here you will find the magnificent Town Hall, arcaded galleries, restaurants, and old merchants’ houses.

Notable buildings in the Old City of Zamosc include Zamość City Hall, Zamość Cathedral, Zamość Synagogue, Zamojski Academy, and the Zamojski Palace.

The Old Town is surrounded by the remains of the Zamość Fortress.

FAQ

Q: What is the Old City of Zamosc?

A: The Old City is a historic district located in the town of Zamosc, in southeast Poland. It is a well-preserved example of Renaissance urban planning, with a complex system of fortifications and a unique collection of public and private buildings. The Old City was built in the 16th century by Jan Zamoyski, a wealthy nobleman and the founder of the city. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Q: What are some of the notable features of the Old City?

A: The Old City is known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture, including the magnificent town hall, several churches, and a large number of burgher houses. The city’s fortifications, which include walls, towers, and bastions, are also a notable feature, as they are one of the best-preserved examples of Renaissance military architecture in Europe. Other points of interest include the market square, the city gates, and the many beautiful gardens and parks that are found throughout the city.

Q: When is the best time to visit the Old City of Zamosc?

A: The best time to visit is during the summer months of June through September, when the weather is warm and pleasant, and the city’s many parks and gardens are in full bloom. However, if you are looking to experience the city’s many cultural and historical events, it is recommended to visit during the spring and fall.

Q: What kind of accommodation can be found in Zamosc?

A: There are several accommodation options available in Zamosc, including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Many of these options are located within the Old City and are housed in restored historical buildings. Some options can be found also just outside the walls but still in the city.

Q: Are there any tours available of the Old City?

A: Yes, there are many tour operators that offer guided tours of the Old City of Zamosc. These tours typically include visits to the city’s main historical and cultural sites, as well as information about the history and architecture of the city. Some of the tour also include the region of Zamość. The tours can be done on foot or by car depending on the company and package you choose

Q: Are there any nearby attractions?

A: Yes, there are many nearby attractions to the Old City, including:

The Solska Forest, a beautiful nature reserve with hiking trails and an observation tower
The Zamoyski Museum, which is located in the city’s palace and showcases the history and culture of the region
The St. John the Baptist Church, a beautiful baroque church located on the edge of the Old City.
Lubań, a small charming town close by, known for the traditional wooden houses and the nature around.
The Bieszczady Mountains and the Biebrza National Park are also located not far from the city, and offer great opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching.

Padua of the North Pearl of the Renaissance UNESCO World Heritage site Zamojski Academy Zamojski Palace Zamość Cathedral Zamość City Hall Zamość Synagogue

polandtravel

March 26, 2021

Muskauer Park

Muskauer

Muskauer Park – updated 10 January 2023.

Muskauer Park (also known as “Muzakowski Park Narodowy” in Polish) is a large park that straddles the border between Germany and Poland. It is located in the Lower Lusatia region of Germany, and the Lubuskie province of Poland. The park was designed in the mid-19th century by the German landscape architect, Peter Joseph Lenné, and was later expanded and refined by his student, Hermann von Pückler-Muskau.

The park is the largest and one of the most famous English gardens in Central Europe, stretching along both sides of the German and Polish border. It was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites on 2^nd July 2004. The park also stands as one of Poland’s official Historic Monuments, as designated 1^st May 2004, and tracked by the National Heritage Board of Poland.

Schloss Muskau

The park is known for its picturesque landscapes, which include rolling hills, lakes, and rivers. It also features a wide variety of plant life, including both native and exotic species. There are several historic buildings located within the park, including the Muskau Castle, which is a restored 18th-century palace that now serves as a hotel and restaurant.

The largest proportion of the park is located in Poland (3.5 sq km) with the remaining 2.1 sq km within Germany.

Park on Terraces

The castle (Schloss) is situated on the German side of the park, the heart of the park called the. ‘Park on Terraces’ is located within Poland. In 2003 a pedestrian bridge spanning the Neisse was rebuilt to connect both parts.

Muskauer was designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding farmed landscape, and it pioneered new approaches to landscape design and contributed to the advancement of landscape architecture as a discipline.

Unlike many landscaped parks in Europe, the objective of the park design was to use local plants to enhance the qualities of the existing landscape and to integrate the local town as part of the development using green passages that formed urban parks. It is an example of a cultural landscape in which the site’s natural attributes have been harnessed with the utmost skill and includes a reconstructed castle, bridges, an arboretum, the river Neisse, water features, buildings, forested areas and paths.

Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau

Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau was the definition of a cad who famously married an older and very rich woman to raise funds for the development of the park, only to formally divorce her a few years later to look for another fortune to finance the garden’s maintenance. In the mid-1840s, the prince sold the park to Prince Frederik of the Netherlands to avoid bankruptcy.

The park receives thousands of visitors every year, and is popular among tourists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature, as well as learn about the history and culture of the region.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Muskauer Park:

Q: What is the history of the park?

A: The park was created in the 19th century by Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau, a German nobleman and landscape architect, who transformed a hunting ground into a romantic landscape park with a variety of architectural and landscape features. The park was designed to be an idealized representation of nature, with winding paths, scenic lakes, and diverse flora and fauna. The Park is considered one of the most important English-style parks in Europe. After WWII the park was divided between Poland and Germany, but recently both countries agreed on cross-border cooperation and the park is being restored to it’s former glory.

Q: What kind of features can be seen in Muskauer Park?

A: The park features a variety of architectural and landscape features, including winding paths, scenic lakes, picturesque bridges, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can also see historic buildings such as the Chinese teahouse, a Gothic Revival castle, a large hunting lodge and the main palace of Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau which was re-built as an art center. The park is also home to a variety of different plant species, including deciduous and coniferous trees, as well as a rich variety of birds and other wildlife.

Q: Is the park a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

A: Yes, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, added to the list in 2004, as part of the “Muskauer Park / Park Mużakowski”

Q: What can be seen there?

A: Visitors to the park can see the picturesque landscapes, historic buildings, and natural beauty of the park, as well as learn about its history and cultural heritage. There are many trails for walking, cycling and horse-riding, the park is also a popular spot for bird-watching, fishing and other nature activities. Visitors can also take guided tours or attend some of the cultural events that are regularly held in the park.

Q: How to get there?

A: Muskauer is located in the border of Poland and Germany, in the region of Lower Silesia. The nearest major city is Görlitz in Germany, but it can also be reached by car or public transport from other cities like Wrocław, Legnica or Zgorzelec.

Q: What is the best time to visit Muskauer?

A: The best time to visit the park would depend on your personal preferences. The park is open year-round and it can be enjoyed in any season, but the most pleasant time to visit would be in the warmer months when the weather is more favorable, and the nature is in full bloom. The park is also great to visit in autumn when the leaves change color. The park also hosts some seasonal events, such as concerts and guided tours, which could add to the experience of visiting at a specific time.

Visit the official Muskauer Park website.

English garden Muskauer Park Park on Terraces UNESCO World Heritage site

polandtravel

March 26, 2021

Medieval Town of Torun

Torun Medieval Town

Medieval Town of Torun – updated 10 January 2023.

The Medieval Town owes its origins to the Teutonic Order, which built a castle in the town in the mid-13^th century as a base for the conquest and evangelisation of Prussia. This acted as a catalyst for the growth, importance and popularity of the town and it soon developed a commercial role as part of the Hanseatic League.

Nicolaus Copernicus

In the old and new town, the many imposing public and private buildings from the 14^th and 15^th centuries (among them the house of Nicolaus Copernicus) are striking evidence of Torun’s stature.

Toruń is a remarkably well-preserved example of a medieval European trading and administrative centre. The city was founded in the period when Christianity was being spread through Eastern Europe by the military monks of the Teutonic Order, and when rapid growth in trade between the countries of the Baltic Sea and Eastern Europe was being spurred by the Hanseatic League.

The Medieval Town of Torun is comprised of three elements: the ruins of the Teutonic Castle, the Old Town, and the New Town, all surrounded by a circuit of defensive walls.

The castle

The majority of the castle was destroyed during an uprising in 1454, when the local townspeople revolted against the Teutonic Order. The ruins and the archaeological remains have been excavated and safeguarded.

An exceptionally complete picture of the medieval way of life is illustrated in the original street patterns and early buildings of Toruń. Both the Old Town and the New Town have Gothic parish churches and numerous fine medieval brick townhouses, many of which have retained their original Gothic façades, partition walls, stucco-decorated ceilings, vaulted cellars, and painted decoration.

Townhouses

Many townhouses in Toruń were used for both residential and commercial purposes. A fine example is the house in which Nicolaus Copernicus was reputedly born in 1473; it has been preserved as a museum devoted to the famous astronomer’s life and achievements.

The townhouses often included storage facilities and remarkable brick granaries, some of which were up to five storeys high. Because so many houses have survived from this period, the medieval plots are for the most part still preserved, delineated by their original brick boundary walls.

Today, the Medieval Town of Torun shares the title of capital city of the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship with the city of Bydgoszcz. The entire city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for being an unusually well-preserved example of a medieval European trading and administrative centre.

The Medieval Town of Torun has benefited from numerous renovation projects in recent years, in particular the Old Town area. Buildings, pavements, streets and squares have been painstakingly reconstructed reversing them to their historic appearance.

FAQ

The Medieval Town of Torun is a historical city located in northern Poland, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Medieval Town of Torun:

Q: What is the history of the Medieval Town?

A: The Medieval Town was founded in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, a German medieval Christian military order. It quickly grew in importance as a trade and cultural center, and it was known for its production of textiles, ceramics, and gingerbread. Torun was also an important center of learning, and the famous astronomer Copernicus was born and studied in the city. Torun suffered considerable damage during WWII, but it has been carefully restored to its medieval appearance and is now a popular tourist destination.

Q: What kind of architecture can be seen in the Medieval Town?

A: It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, particularly Gothic-style buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries. The city is home to a number of churches, including the Church of the Holy Spirit, which has a beautifully decorated interior and an ornate bell tower. Visitors can also see the town hall, which dates back to the 14th century, as well as the city walls and defensive towers, which have been preserved and restored.

Q: Is the Medieval Town of Torun a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

A: Yes, the Medieval Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, added to the list in 1997.

Q: What can be seen there?

A: Visitors to the Medieval Town can see the well-preserved medieval architecture, and take a stroll through the charming and picturesque streets of the Old Town, which is home to many historical buildings and landmarks. Visitors can also visit the Copernicus Museum, which is dedicated to the life and work of the famous astronomer, and the Gingerbread Museum which showcases the traditional craft of gingerbread-making. There are also many shops, cafes, and restaurants where visitors can try the famous Torun gingerbread and other local specialties.

Q: How to get there?

A: The Medieval Town is located in northern Poland. It can be reached by car, train or by bus. The nearest airport is in Bydgoszcz, which is around 30 km away. There are also regular train and bus connections to Torun from other major cities in Poland.

Q: What is the best time to visit?

A: The best time to visit Medieval Town would depend on your personal preferences. The town is open year-round, but it may be more pleasant to visit during the warmer months when the weather is more favorable. The Medieval Town of Torun also has a number of festivals, events and cultural happenings throughout the year such as the Copernicus Festival, the Gingerbread Festival, and Torun Night of Museums that could be interesting to attend and plan the visit accordingly.