Churches & monasteries

Church of St Catherine in Golub

The Church of St Catherine of Alexandria in Golub is a Gothic fortified church in the oldest part of Golub, a short walk from the Teutonic castle. Its oldest and most distinctive element is the late-13th-century chancel.

A chancel from 1293 and a defensive tower

The first masonry phase consisted of the chancel, built in 1293. Between 1320 and 1350 the church was enlarged with a nave and a massive defensive tower about 8.9 metres wide. The building formed part of the settlement’s fortifications, and its position near a crossing of the Drwęca explains its defensive character. Gothic motifs survive in the chancel’s walls, vault and carved bosses.

The 1640 altar

After damage and a lightning strike on the tower, the church was repeatedly repaired. The most important later furnishing is the Baroque altar of 1640, founded by deputy starost Krzysztof Lody and townspeople. Its composition echoes the high altar of Pelplin Cathedral; its tiers contain paintings of the Coronation of the Virgin, St Catherine and the Annunciation, along with saints’ figures.

Practical information

The church is on Kościelna Street in the Golub district, close to the castle and visitor car park. It is an active church, so check current services and interior access before entering. Visit it together with the castle and a walk through old Golub; allow about 1–1.5 hours for the full stop.