The Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul in Stopnica

The Parish Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul in Stopnica is a historic monument with a rich history dating back to 1103, when its first pastor, Baldwin, was appointed Bishop of Kraków. Initially, the church was located in a different location, and in 1326, during the reign of Władysław Łokietek, the Chapel of St. Anne was built. Between 1349 and 1362, the current church was erected thanks to the foundation of Casimir the Great, as an act of expiation for the death of Father Marcin Baryczka. The temple suffered damage in the 17th century, particularly during the wars with the Swedes and Prince Rákóczi, which led to the baroquization of the roof and the bell tower, while the walls retained their Gothic style. The church was destroyed during World War II, and its reconstruction, led by Dr. Eng. Józef Jamróz, took place from 1946 to 1958. Architecturally, the church is a hall-type structure with two naves, featuring characteristic pointed-arch windows and rib vaulting. The interior is adorned with numerous elements, including a late Renaissance altar with the image of Our Lady of Stopnica, as well as valuable sculptures crafted by Józef Zięba. Among the interesting facts, it is worth noting that the church lies on the route of the Małopolska Way of St. James, a historic pilgrimage path leading to Santiago de Compostela, highlighting its cultural and religious significance in the region. Next to the church stands a belfry from the 1980s, housing three bells that commemorate not only the church's patrons but also important historical events.