Evangelical Church in Pszczyna

The Evangelical Church in Pszczyna stands on the market square, a few steps from the gate leading to the castle. The present Neo-Baroque building followed the fire that destroyed its predecessor in 1905 and was rebuilt in 1905–1906. Today it is an active Evangelical Lutheran church and an interesting stop on a tour of Pszczyna’s historic centre.

Neo-Baroque rebuilding

The building retains a formal façade, a tower with a copper helmet and the layout of a large worship hall. The interior is not overloaded with decoration, but the wooden galleries are worth noticing: they increased seating capacity for the congregation. The church shows how the local Protestant community rebuilt an important landmark after a disaster and gave it a more monumental character.

Traces of the princely family

Inside is an altar with a painting of the Ascension of Christ, donated by Duchess Auguste of Anhalt-Köthen. Opposite the pulpit stands a princely box bearing the coat of arms of the Hochberg family, former owners of the Pszczyna estates. An older tomb slab survives in the outer wall, recalling the history of the earlier church.

Practical information

The church remains an active place of worship, so sightseeing must fit around services. The current schedule is published by the parish; also check whether a concert or ceremony is taking place. The church combines easily with Pszczyna Castle, the market square and the palace park. Allow about 30–45 minutes for the building and its immediate surroundings.