Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Krowiarki

The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Krowiarki is a neo-Romanesque structure built of brick and stone in 1909, on the site of an older wooden church dating back to 1709. It has a rich history, the most important events of which are associated with the church's patrons. After the death of Countess Wanda von Gaschin in 1908, the new patron became Count Edgar Henckel von Donnersmarck, who initiated the construction of the new church due to the risk of the old one collapsing. The cornerstone was laid on July 25, 1909, and the new church was consecrated on September 4, 1910. During World War I, the church suffered damage, losing its two largest bells and being harmed by military actions. After the war, the damage was gradually repaired, including the reconstruction of the tower and the mission cross. The church stands out for its neo-Romanesque architecture, featuring a hall-like layout, three naves of equal height, and a distinctive tower. The interior is adorned with paintings, sculptures, and artworks, including the main altar funded by Count Donnersmarck, as well as side altars. Valuable artifacts from the earlier wooden church have also been preserved, such as paintings and an 18th-century reliquary. Over the years, the church has undergone numerous modernizations, including electrification, interior painting, and the replacement of windows with stained glass. Beyond its religious function, the church is an important element of local culture and history, blending tradition with modernity. An interesting fact is that the new cross on the tower was cast from the wreckage of a Soviet aircraft, highlighting the region's tragic history. Thus, the church is not only a place of prayer but also a symbol of the resilience and renewal of the local community.