Churches & monasteries

St Hyacinth Church in Klimontów

The Rectoral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Hyacinth in Klimontów is one of the most valuable Late-Renaissance monuments in the Świętokrzyskie region. The former Dominican church and monastery were founded by Jan Zbigniew Ossoliński and still form a distinctive complex on the hill above the Koprzywianka valley.

The Ossoliński foundation and the Dominicans

In 1613 Jan Zbigniew Ossoliński received permission from Bishop Piotr Tylicki to build a church and monastery. The church was erected in 1617–1620, and the Dominicans arrived in 1620. It was consecrated on 10 July 1633. The founder was buried in the porch, beneath the threshold — his remains were discovered during conservation work in 1999.

Late Renaissance and a venerated image

The rendered masonry church has steep roofs, a pseudo-transept, a polygonal chancel and a lantern-topped dome above the narthex. The complex is attributed to the Italian masters Casper and Sebastian Fodyga. One of the altars holds a venerated image of the Virgin and Child, beside which numerous votive offerings survive.

Practical information

The church is at 2 św. Heleny Herman Street in Klimontów. Since 2006 it has been a rectoral church. As an active place of worship it may be accessible outside services, but check current hours with the parish or diocese before travelling. Combine it with a walk around Klimontów and a visit to St Joseph’s Church. Allow 45–60 minutes for the former Dominican complex.