St. James the Greater Apostle Church

The Church of St. James the Greater Apostle in Szczyrk is certainly a place with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Here are some facts about this church:

1. History: The first information about the village and parish of Kotuszów, where this church is located, comes from the first half of the 14th century. The parish was mentioned in the list of those paying the church tax in 1326. In the 16th century, the temple was looted and burned by Krzysztof Lanckoroński, the castellan of Radom. In the 17th century, probably Zbigniew Lanckoroński, the son of the castellan of Radom, funded a new temple. The current church dates from the second half of the 17th century.

2. Architecture: The Church of St. James the Apostle is wooden, built in log construction and covered with shingles. Its plan is in the shape of a Latin cross. Outside the church are buttresses, and inside the nave and the arms of the transept are the chapels of St. Anthony and St. Joseph. The presbytery is narrower than the nave and is closed by a semicircular apse. The tower, added to the nave, has a characteristic octagonal roof and an arcade lantern.

3. Reconstruction: During World War II, the church was burned down along with its furnishings, but it was rebuilt by Fr. Antoni Sobczyk, who arrived in Kotuszów in 1945. The temple is now made of brick and plastered.

4. Pilgrimage route: In 2009, Bishop E. Frankowski opened the pilgrimage route of St. James: Sandomierz – Kotuszów – Kraków to Santiago de Compostela, later extended to Lublin.

Masses in the Church of St. James the Apostle take place on Sundays, holidays, and weekdays. Indulgences are celebrated in honor of St. James the Apostle (July 25) and St. Joseph (March 19) ¹.

This is certainly an important place for the residents of Szczyrk and the surrounding areas, as well as for pilgrims following the trail of St. James the Apostle. The Church of St. James the Greater Apostle in Szczyrk is certainly a place that attracts both with its history and architecture. Its reconstruction after the destructions of World War II is a testament to the strong faith and determination of the people who strive to preserve and nurture their cultural and religious heritage.

It is wonderful that the church is also part of the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. This is an excellent opportunity for pilgrims to immerse themselves in the spirituality and history of this place and to experience extraordinary respect for the saints whose lives and activities are associated with the Church of St. James the Greater Apostle.

Let us hope that this place will continue to serve as a center of spirituality and tradition for the local community and the pilgrims who visit this beautiful church.

This is a wonderful place that connects history, faith, and the beauty of architecture.