Church of the Holy Cross in Chabówka

The Church of the Holy Cross on Obidowa in Chabówka is a wooden church and a place of devotion to St Christopher beside the popular route into Podhale. Its story combines local legend, pilgrimage traditions and a difficult rebuilding after fire.

A shrine on Obidowa and a healing legend

The church was built in 1757 on the site of an earlier chapel, founded by Jan Wielopolski. Local tradition says that around 1700 a blind inhabitant of Chabówka regained his sight on Piątkowa Góra. The story helped establish the place as a pilgrimage destination and explains its enduring religious importance. The church remains associated with services to St Christopher, patron of travellers.

Fire and rebuilding

On 2 October 1994 the church was set on fire; much of the timber structure and furnishings burned. It was rebuilt soon afterwards, and Cardinal Franciszek Macharski reconsecrated it in 2002. Inside, the wooden high altar with the Crucifixion and elements of the late-Baroque furnishings remain worth seeing.

Practical information

The church stands on Obidowa, between Chabówka and Rdzawka, near national road 47. The caretakers’ official website says it can be viewed from outside and in the vestibule; full access depends on services and events. Combine the stop with Rabka-Zdrój, Ludźmierz or a Gorce route. Allow 15–20 minutes for a short visit.