Churches & monasteries

Church in Wojszki

St Michael the Archangel Chapel

The village of Wojszki, in Juchnowiec Kościelny municipality, is home to a small Orthodox filial chapel dedicated to St Michael the Archangel. It was erected as a votive chapel commemorating Russian soldiers who died during the fighting connected with the January Uprising. The founder was Mikhail Muravyov, the Vilna governor-general known as “the Hanger”. The site is a reminder of imperial politics of memory in Podlasie, not a typical large wooden Orthodox church.

History and architecture

Construction of the masonry chapel began in 1864 and it was consecrated on 17 November 1865. From the beginning, it was connected with the Orthodox parish of Saints Cosmas and Damian in Ryboły; prayers were also held here for Muravyov. Its small scale and simple form reflect its commemorative purpose.

Wojszki and nearby sights

The chapel works best as one stop on a tour of Juchnowiec Kościelny municipality. Wojszki retains traditional wooden houses with decorated shutters. Nearby Ryboły has two historic Orthodox churches, while Zajączki and Kożany offer further religious heritage. The official municipal cycling route links these places into a practical loop.

Visiting information

The chapel is in Wojszki, Juchnowiec Kościelny municipality, Białystok County. No regular visitor hours have been confirmed, so plan to view it from the outside. Interior access may be possible during a service or by arranging a visit with the parish in Ryboły. Ask before photographing the interior.