St. Catherine of Alexandria Church in Sierakowice

The Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria in Sierakowice is a historic wooden Catholic church dating back to 1675, belonging to the Holy Trinity Parish in Rachowice in the Diocese of Gliwice. It is located on the Wooden Architecture Trail in the Silesian Voivodeship, and several tourist routes pass nearby. Its history dates back to 1447, when the first mentions of the church appeared, although the original structure was dismantled in 1673. The current building was constructed of wood in the Silesian style, featuring a characteristic square-based tower typical of the region. The church has an oriented interior with a nave and a narrower chancel, surrounded by soboty (overhanging eaves), and the roof over the nave is gabled, giving it a traditional architectural appearance. The furnishings are Baroque, including the main altar from 1678 depicting St. Catherine, side altars, an 18th-century pulpit, and a baptismal font. A particular treasure is the 17th-century polychromes, discovered in 2001 and comprehensively restored by 2010, which adorn the interior and depict numerous biblical scenes. Interestingly, some Gothic sculptures that once decorated the church were stolen in the 1990s. Surrounding the church are a historic cemetery gate and the Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk, adding to the charm of the site. The church is not only an important part of the region's cultural heritage but also a place rich in history, where Catholic traditions harmonize with local folklore.