Church of St Catherine of Alexandria in Stary Wielisław

The Church of St Catherine of Alexandria in Stary Wielisław is a historic parish church in the village of Stary Wielisław, in the rural municipality of Kłodzko, formerly dedicated to St Lawrence.

History of the building

The church was first mentioned in 1300. A fire destroyed it in 1429, and the present building was constructed in the second half of the 15th century and extended in the 16th century. A thorough rebuilding took place in 1700-1730, the tower was altered in the 19th century, and the stained-glass windows were added in the early 20th century.

Architecture and interior

The church combines baroque forms with Gothic elements; it is built of brick and plastered, with a single tower and a three-nave body with galleries. The chancel retains its Gothic cross-ribbed vault. The whole is surrounded by a high defensive wall with turrets and arcades. Inside are an 18th-century high altar, side altars, a pulpit and an organ case, as well as baroque polychrome decoration and furnishings.

Sanctuary

The church is an active parish church of the parish of St Catherine in Stary Wielisław and also serves as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sorrows, reactivated in 2000. In 2001 it was elevated to the rank of international sanctuary.

Practical information

• Location: Stary Wielisław, rural municipality of Kłodzko, Kłodzko County
• The church is active, serving as both a parish church and a Marian sanctuary
• Listed in the heritage register (no. A/1666/658, entered on 14 March 1960)
• It is worth checking service times and visiting arrangements with the parish before your visit