St Anne's Church in Barczewo

The tallest landmark above Barczewo's roofs is the brick tower of the Church of St Anne and St Stephen, topped by a Baroque spire with a weathervane dated 1800. This is the town's parish church and one of the finest examples of Gothic church architecture in Warmia. A wall with three gates separates it from the street.

History

Construction was probably completed in 1386, funded by Bishop of Warmia Henry III Sorbom. The tower was probably added in the 15th century. Fire and war damaged the church many times – in 1414, during the Thirteen Years' War and in 1544, among others. After the last of these fires, late Gothic net, crystal and star vaults were built over the aisles. Another fire in 1798 was followed by rebuilding, when the tower took on its present shape. In 1894 a Gothic Revival chancel was added on the east side. After damage in the Second World War, repairs were completed by 1962, and the interior was restored in 1988–1989.

What to see

• The tower of seven storeys, separated by plastered friezes and decorated with blind arcades of varied arches.
• The hall interior with three aisles and five bays, its vaults resting on four pairs of octagonal pillars.
• A Gothic crucifix from about 1500 – the most valuable piece of the furnishings.
• The east gable with ten pointed niches, and the west gable with a late Baroque turret dated 1798.
• The wall with three gates separating the church from the town houses.

Tripto tip

The church stands in the north-eastern part of the old town, near the mill pond with its amphitheatre. Before going in, walk around the wall and look at the gates. The crystal vaults are best seen in daylight. Allow 20–30 minutes; St Andrew's Church is a few minutes' walk away.