St. John the Baptist Church in Proszowice

The Parish Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist in Proszowice, built on the site of two earlier churches, has a rich history dating back to the mid-13th century. It features remarkable Gothic architecture, with a three-nave hall structure made of red brick, double window frames, and pointed-arch portals. Inside the church, remnants of earlier furnishings have been preserved, including three Baroque altars, stained-glass windows, and Gothic reliquary herms. The church played a significant role in its region, serving as the venue for the regional assemblies (sejmiki) of the Kraków Voivodeship. Unfortunately, its history is marked by destruction, including fires and war damage, which necessitated reconstruction in the 20th century, significantly altering its volume and interior decor. It is worth noting that after World War I, thanks to the efforts of Count Józef Kleszczyński, the church regained some of its former splendor, though its current form differs from the original. To this day, various works of art have been preserved, including Stations of the Cross paintings and polychromes from the 1930s, highlighting the cultural significance of this site. The church is not only a center of religious life but also a significant historical and architectural landmark in the region, reflecting the rich tradition of Proszowice. The parish, with approximately 10,500 faithful, includes not only the town itself but also nearby villages, underscoring its impact on the life of the local community.