St. Anthony of Padua Church in Poznań

The Church of St. Anthony of Padua, located on St. Anthony Street in the Starołęka district of Poznań, is a Roman Catholic place of worship whose history dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. Initially, Starołęka belonged to the parish of St. James in Głuszyna, which posed difficulties for the faithful due to the considerable distance. As a result, thanks to the efforts of parish priest Fr. Antoni Stychel and numerous donations, construction of the church began in 1912. The prototype of the temple was designed by Roger Sławski, but the original plans were never fully realized. After World War I, in 1920, a temporary chapel housed in a military barracks was consecrated. After the war, the church suffered damage but was quickly rebuilt by the parishioners and reconsecrated on March 28, 1945. Architect Sławski designed a new, permanent church, the construction of which began in 1949. Consecrated in 1974, the church is distinguished by its three-nave pseudo-basilica form with a distinctive tower and a coffered ceiling. Additionally, the interior is adorned with polychromes, stained-glass windows, and sculptures, some of which come from other churches in Poznań. Interestingly, the design of the tower, which significantly deviates from Sławski's original vision, was implemented in the 1960s, and the church is characterized by a blend of traditional and modernist architecture. It is also worth noting not only the commemorative plaques honoring important figures and events but also the symbolic urban layout related to the proximity of the Holy Trinity Church tower in Dębiec. The Church of St. Anthony of Padua is not only an important religious site but also a place with rich history and architectural value that continues to bring together the local community.