Saint Joseph church in Prudnik

The Sanctuary of Saint Joseph in Prudnik-Las is a Franciscan monastery and church in the woods south of Prudnik. The site combines devotion to Saint Joseph, Franciscan history and the memory of Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński’s internment. A visit can be paired with a quiet forest walk.

The monastery’s history

The Franciscans arrived in Prudnik on 3 March 1852, and a small monastery with a chapel was built that year. After their return in 1863, construction of a church began. The foundation stone was laid on 19 March 1866 and the church was consecrated on 17 December 1867. The site is still cared for by the Franciscans.

Wyszyński and the sanctuary

Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński was held in the monastery in 1954–1955. Visitors can see his cell and memorabilia connected with his stay. Inspired by Henryk Sienkiewicz’s novel The Deluge, he began in Prudnik thinking about renewing King John Casimir’s vows, later renewed at Jasna Góra. The church became a sanctuary on 8 March 1996. Its chapel preserves an image of Saint Joseph painted by Brother Piotr Küchler.

Visiting tips

The complex is at 5 Józefa Poniatowskiego Street in Prudnik and lies beside several walking routes, including the Mieczysław Orłowicz Trail. This is an active place of worship, so check the current service schedule and arrangements for visiting the cell and memorabilia. Allow extra time if you also want to walk in the forest.

Tripto tip: see the sanctuary and Wyszyński’s cell first, then follow part of one of the marked trails.