Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Żary (the Fara)

Fara Żarska, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is one of the most important historic landmarks in Żary. The church stands at pl. Kard. Stefana Wyszyńskiego 4 in the historic centre, a few minutes’ walk from the market square. Its history reaches back to the Middle Ages: the first Romanesque church on this site was mentioned in 1207.

Medieval origins and Gothic form

The present church retains the character of a Gothic building whose construction is dated to around 1230. It was remodelled over the following centuries, including in the 15th and 17th centuries. The exterior and interior combine Gothic vaults, buttresses and pointed openings with the later Baroque Promnitz Chapel.

A church rebuilt after the war

The parish church was badly damaged in 1945, and reconstruction took place between 1975 and 1984. The presbytery contains a cross made by the artist Lisa in 1980. The church is a useful stop for anyone interested in Żary’s history and heritage.

Visiting and practical information

Fara Żarska is an active parish church, so visits take place only with a guide and must be arranged in advance. The contribution for a visit is 20 PLN for adults and 10 PLN for children and young people. The bell tower costs 20 PLN; visitors aged 13–17 pay 10 PLN when accompanied by an adult. Groups of more than 20 can book a Polish-language guide: 15 PLN per person plus a 100 PLN guiding fee. Visit dates are published by the parish. Contact: +48 787 492 820 or zwiedzanie@zarynspj.pl. Check availability before travelling, especially if you want to enter outside services.