Churches & monasteries

St Clement's Church in Zawoja

St Clement’s Church in central Zawoja is one of the largest and most unusual wooden churches in southern Poland. Its interior, supported by cast-iron columns, surprises with its scale, while its location below Babia Góra makes it a useful stop before a mountain walk.

A church from 1757–1759, rebuilt in 1888

The first wooden church was built in 1757–1759, funded by Jan Wielopolski and local residents. In 1888 Archduke Albrecht of Habsburg financed a major rebuilding, creating the present spacious Latin-cross structure. The design was prepared by Karol Pietschka and the work was led by Józef Gibas. Zawoja became an independent parish in 1819.

Cast-iron columns and painted decoration

The church has a three-aisle basilican layout and Alpine architectural features, setting it apart from the small wooden churches usually associated with Podhale. Cast-iron columns support the ceilings. Inside, look for six wooden altars, a pulpit and the figural-ornamental polychromy painted in 1930 by Zygmunt Milli and Marian Arczyński. The 1969 stained glass was designed by Witold Jańczak.

Practical information

The church is at Zawoja 123 in the village centre. It is an active parish, so check current service times and access before visiting. The Babia Góra National Park, trails to Babia Góra and the historic Babiogórski Railway Station are nearby. Allow 30–45 minutes for the church.