Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord in Iława

The Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord in Iława, built between 1317 and 1325 in the Gothic style, is one of the oldest buildings in the city and has earned the honorary title of the "red" church among the locals. Throughout its history, it has undergone numerous renovations, the most extensive of which took place between 1903 and 1905. From the very beginning, the church served as the main parish church, with patronage exercised by local townspeople, despite the influence of the Teutonic Order. The church hosted various brotherhoods, including the Corpus Christi Brotherhood, which organized funeral rites for its members. Damage caused by wars and fires was frequent, but thanks to the efforts of the local community, the building was systematically restored, preserving its original elements such as Gothic portals. The church's architecture combines Gothic with Renaissance elements, particularly evident in its tall tower dating back to 1550. The interior is adorned with numerous works of art, including a Rococo altar from 1741 and Neo-Gothic stained-glass windows. The church also houses a crypt where important local historical figures are buried, such as the starost of Iława, Wilhelm Albrecht von Finckenstein, and his wife, underscoring its significance as a place of worship and remembrance. In 1949, the church was entered into the register of historical monuments, ensuring its protection and highlighting its historical value. Currently, the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate are responsible for its care. An interesting fact is that the historic bells, which were dismantled during World War II, were found in Hamburg and returned to the church tower in 2006. Optional nighttime illumination and the adjacent Neo-Gothic parish building add to the unique character of this historic site.