Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003, Haczów Church, in the Low Beskids region, is one of the oldest and largest wooden Gothic churches in Europe. Dendrochronological testing has uncovered that it dates to the 1450s or 1460s, but it was sadly razed to the ground by a Tatar invasion in 1624. The log structure has stone foundations retaining the original truss-log-bracket system and, interestingly, some structural elements still show medieval carpenters’ assembly markings. Take a peek and see if you can spot some handy woodwork from the Middle Ages!

Excited scholars made a beeline for Haczów in 1955 when 15th century wall paintings were uncovered here. The Nave and chancel walls are stunningly decorated with figural and ornamental polychrome paintings dating from 1494 - probably the oldest polychrome of this kind in Europe. Originally, Gothic paintings were also visible on the ceiling but the only remnants today are the fragments on eleven ceiling planks. Visitors can see many original church furnishings, including a late Gothic sculpture of the Holy Mother and Child, a 16th-century stone baptismal font, a 17th-century altar of Christ the Merciful, and a copy of a Gothic Pietà from 1400 (the original of which is in the brick church next door). Outside, in the square next to the church, lies a small wooden granary that is worth a look, and while you're there, make sure you see the 'silent memorial' barn mural by Arkadiusz Andrzejkow only 100m away down the main street at Haczów 601; additional murals can also be seen nearby at Haczów 540 and Haczów 443.

Guided tours are available if booked in advance.