Churches & monasteries

Wooden Orthodox Church in Soce

In Soce, one of the three villages in the Open Shutters Land, a small wooden Orthodox chapel of St Prophet Elijah stands by the main road. It is a quiet Podlachian stop and a filial chapel of the parish in Puchły, not a large church for regular sightseeing. Combine it with a walk among decorated wooden houses and votive crosses.

St Prophet Elijah’s chapel

The chapel has a modest wooden form and a small dome with a cross. Parish information says the foundation stone was laid on 15 March 1990; descriptions differ on the history of the whole building, so no single construction date is presented here. The interior is devotional rather than museum-like.

Soce and the Open Shutters Land

The village is known for traditional wooden buildings, colourful shutters and two parts separated by the Rudnia river. Look for carved details and votive crosses, remembering that the houses are private property. Take photographs from the road and do not enter yards without permission. The walk can continue to Puchły and Trześcianka.

Visiting tips

The chapel can be viewed from outside, but regular interior opening hours are not confirmed. Services take place on selected days, including the Third Day of Easter, 2 August and the feast of Saints Cosmas and Damian. If you want to go inside, check the date with the parish in Puchły. There is no admission ticket; park without blocking local access.