Wooden Architecture of Małopolska

Małopolska – the region in which Kraków finds itself – is something of a tourist goldmine, and diligent tourists find themselves faced with a stonking choice of eight sites that make it onto the UNESCO World Heritage List. Many won’t require an introduction – we’ve all heard of Auschwitz and Wieliczka, after all. What you probably haven’t heard of is the wooden architecture Małopolska was once famous for – there’s some 237 sites of interest and since 2003 four have made it onto UNESCOs ‘must see’ list.

Leading the charge is the Church of St. Michael the Archangel in Dębno, a pointed little marvel that dates from the 15th century. Built without the use of a single nail this beauty has avoided destruction all this time - proof, according to the locals, of God’s protection. The perfectly preserved interiors are entered from the west side, and visitors can admire polychrome wall paintings, wooden carvings and a triptych dating from the 16th century. The easiest way to visit is by way of Nowy Targ.

Next up there’s a church of the same name, this one found in Binarowa. Dating from around 1500 this is the second oldest church in the region and points of interest include a Gothic sculpture of the Virgin Mary, a 17th century Lent curtain and a bell tower that is dated to 1522.

Elsewhere hit Lipnica Muranowa to visit the Church of St. Leonard. Local legend claims this steep-roofed structure was built in 1203, though this is a claim that’s discounted by most historians who date its construction to the late 15th century. Notable for not having a tower this church features 16th century paintings adorning the ceiling, and a relief of the Virgin Mary that was originally cast in the 14th century.

Finally there’s the Church of Phillip & Jacob in Sękowa. Built in 1520 using larch wood this house of worship is notable for its dogged survival. In 1915 it found itself right on the frontline and suffered horrendous damage both inside and out. The 1990s saw a huge program of restoration undertaken, and today the church is back to its best, complete with a 17th century altar and a stone font used for baptisms that goes back to the 16th century

As you may have guessed, the bad news is that all four aren’t the easiest to incorporate on a flying visit from Kraków, and it’s most certainly a trail that favours drivers with a good map and a fearless attitude regarding the roads of Poland. Those wishing to take the easy way out can view wooden architecture within Kraków’s city limits by paying a visit to St. Margaret’s Chapel in the Salwator district (G-3, ul. Św. Bronisławy). Completed in 1690 this octagonal chapel is the best example of timber architecture to be found in the city, as well as a delightfully offbeat sight all too often ignored.