Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Racibórz

The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Racibórz is a Roman Catholic parish church, considered the oldest church in the city, built in the early Gothic style. Its history dates back to 1205, when it was founded by Duke Mieszko I Plątonogi, with settlers from the Netherlands serving as its builders. The original church burned down in 1300 but was quickly rebuilt. Renovations also included religious purposes, such as the relocation of the collegiate chapter from the castle by Duke Jan II Żelazny in 1416. In the 19th century, after the abolition of the collegiate by the Prussian authorities, the church became the largest parish in Racibórz. The temple survived numerous damages related to wars and fires, including in 1945, which particularly affected its condition after World War II. Architecturally, the church has retained its original Gothic structure, with impressive star vaults inside. The furnishings include a Baroque main altar from the 17th century and numerous sculptures of saints, including the patron saint of Racibórz, St. Marcellus. An interesting feature is the 15th-century Polish Chapel, which testifies to the historical tensions between Poles and Germans in the region. The church also contains epitaphs and tombs, including that of Prelate Marcin Jerzy Korriger. It is an important place not only for the local community but also for the cultural heritage of Upper Silesia.