Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross in Tczew

The Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross in Tczew, serving as the seat of a parish in the Pelplin Diocese, boasts a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Its construction began in the mid-13th century with the erection of a massive tower church, which was destroyed in 1308 following Teutonic invasions. A new temple with a Gothic interior, built in the first half of the 14th century, took the form of a three-nave hall adorned with beautiful star vaults. The church underwent numerous renovations over the centuries, each leaving its mark on its architecture and furnishings. In the 14th century, valuable artworks such as altars and sculptures were created, reflecting the high artistic standards of the region. The main altars date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, featuring rich woodcarving decorations that form an intriguing collection of historical monuments. In the 18th century, the church was enriched with Rococo pulpits and processional banners, testifying to the universality of the Church of Christ. The 19th century brought financial difficulties, leading to the church’s closure between 1830 and 1841, though subsequent repairs helped preserve its structure. The 20th century saw further work on interior decoration and the conservation of historical elements. Works such as the neo-Gothic Altar of Christ’s Tomb and polychromes introduced new artistic accents. The tower, the oldest part of the building, houses bells that were recast multiple times due to war-related damage. After World War II, the church was restored to its religious functions, though many valuable artworks were destroyed or lost. Today, the Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is not only a place of worship but also an important historical, cultural, and architectural landmark, attracting both the faithful and tourists as a witness to Tczew’s rich history.