Churches & monasteries

Wooden Church in Barwałd Dolny

The Church of St Erasmus in Barwałd Dolny stands on the road between Wadowice and Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. The present wooden church was built in 1782 and belongs to the Lesser Poland Wooden Architecture Trail. Its key feature is a 16th-century tower from the previous church, standing behind the apse.

History and an unusual tower

The parish is recorded as early as 1326. The 16th-century tower belonged to the earlier Church of the Assumption and was retained when the present church was built. The founder was Jan Biberstein-Starowieyski, owner of the Barwałd estate. Its position behind the apse is unusual.

Interior and furnishings

The single-nave church has a log structure and shingle roof. Its interior is decorated with late-18th-century polychrome. Look for paintings of the Annunciation and Transfiguration, St Erasmus in the main altar, a 16th-century Virgin and Child, and Rococo organs from 1770. The rood beam with crucifix and the 1842 stoup are also notable.

Visiting and planning a trip

The church remains an active place of worship. The trail lists seasonal summer opening, but interior access may depend on the parish; current information is available at +48 33 872 20 28. Entry is free; keep quiet during services. Address: Barwałd Dolny 50, 34-124 Klecza Górna. Combine the stop with Kalwaria Zebrzydowska or Wadowice.