Churches & monasteries

Church of St. Michael the Archangel in Binarowa

The Church of St Michael the Archangel in Binarowa, about 5 km from Biecz, is one of Lesser Poland’s most valuable wooden monuments. Built around 1500, it joined the UNESCO list in 2003 as one of the six Wooden Churches of Southern Lesser Poland. Its greatest feature is an almost completely painted interior.

Polychrome and furnishings

The oldest early-16th-century stencil polychrome decorates the ceilings with floral patterns. The walls preserve Baroque cycles on the Passion, the Last Judgement and a good death. Look for the late-Gothic Madonna and Child, the altars and paintings concealed behind them.

Structure and history

The church has a log structure, a single nave, a narrower three-sided apse and a tower added in 1596. It was enlarged and redecorated in the 17th century; later conservation preserved the timber and polychrome. Binarowa is part of the Lesser Poland Wooden Architecture Trail.

Visiting and practical information

The parish lists guided visits Wednesday 9:00–17:00, Thursday to Saturday 9:00–18:00 and Sunday 12:00–17:00, with a 13:00–13:30 break. Visits are not allowed during services; check before travelling. Guide: 692 385 244; parish: 13 447 63 96. Address: Binarowa 409, 38-340 Biecz. Confirm any fee when booking.