St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Kąty Bystrzyckie

The Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria in Kąty Bystrzyckie, built in 1541, is the oldest preserved temple in the Lądek Zdrój municipality and one of the first in the Kłodzko region. It belongs to the late Gothic style, with Baroque and Renaissance elements. Its architecture includes a single-nave, oriented structure with a rectangular chancel and a higher nave, and on the roof, there are two stone Maltese crosses. In the 19th century, the church underwent minor changes, such as the reconstruction of windows and the addition of a tower with a belfry. A significant moment in the history of this place was its takeover by the Latin Church after 1945, which led to its degradation and near-complete ruin. In 1999, the Social Committee for the Renovation of the Church was established, which raised funds for reconstruction through various initiatives, including concerts and the sale of "bricks." During the renovation in 2000, fragments of medieval paintings were discovered under the plaster, which strengthened conservation efforts. The interior of the church is modestly furnished, with a Baroque main altar and pulpit, as well as paintings of the Stations of the Cross and an old, decorated pew. An interesting fact is the abundance of historical elements, such as medieval paintings and wooden details, which await conservation. The surroundings of the church, along with the cemetery and preserved tombstones of former residents, create a historical atmosphere of this place. Entry to the church is possible after Mass or by appointment with the village leader, which fosters local integration and the discovery of regional heritage. The church remains a place of cultural and historical significance, reflecting the rich history of the region and the community's efforts to protect cultural heritage.