Church of St. James the Apostle in Leźnica Wielka

The Church of St. James the Apostle in Leźnica Wielka is a wooden temple located in the Archdiocese of Łódź, within the Ozorków deanery. It is an example of late rural Baroque architecture and has been listed as a historic monument by the National Institute of Cultural Heritage since 1967. Situated in the Zgierz County, near provincial road no. 469, close to a military unit and the area of the original settlement of Leźnica Wielka, the church has a rich history. The parish dates back to the 15th century, and its foundation is traditionally associated with the activities of Archbishop Wojciech Jastrzębiec, although 19th-century records indicate the existence of a parish organization as early as the 14th century. The current church, whose oldest structure has not survived, was built between 1741 and 1746 using log construction on a masonry foundation. The building is single-naved, with a narrower polygonal chancel and a gable roof topped with a bell tower. In the 20th century, the church underwent several renovations, including a comprehensive restoration. During World War I and II, the church served various functions, and damages were repaired after the war by parish priest Rev. Ludwik Ziętek. The church's furnishings include a Gothic baptismal font, a Baroque main altar, and side altars from the 17th and 18th centuries. A valuable crucifix and a Rococo pax are also noteworthy. The parish cemetery, located near the church, likely dates back to the 18th century and contains graves of noble families as well as a Neo-Gothic burial chapel. Ancient oak trees surround the cemetery, some of which are protected as natural monuments. The church and cemetery are significant elements of local culture and history.