Church of the Transfiguration in Mieszkowice

The Church of the Transfiguration stands in the centre of Mieszkowice, on the west side of the market square, with its chancel facing the square. It was built in the late 13th century and is an example of Early Gothic architecture, and it was first mentioned in sources in 1297. It is entered in the heritage register.

History and architecture

It was originally a rectangular hall building of granite ashlar, with a tower on the west. In the 14th century the north wall was taken down and a brick side aisle was built in its place, and the remaining walls were raised. In the 15th century the tower was raised and a sacristy added, and in the following century a polygonal chancel was built on the east. After the Second World War the church was consecrated as a Catholic one on 6 August 1945.

From the original layout, the lower storey of the tower with a pointed-arch portal of two orders has survived, as has the lower part of the south wall with a bricked-up part of a window and a Late Gothic brick portal. Two porches were added to the south facade, and the larger has blind niches and pinnacles. The four-sided tower has clock faces and a helm topped with a cross.

Interior

The main nave is covered with a star vault, and the side aisle with cross-rib vaults. The arches between the aisles are covered with polychrome. The neo-Gothic furnishings have survived: the altar, pulpit, pews and four chandeliers. The altar contains a painting of the Transfiguration by C. G. Pfannschmidt. The bowl of a Romanesque font of Gotland limestone has also survived, with a relief of flowers and a creature resembling a griffin, as have figures of saints from the 17th century. A bell from 1756 hangs in the tower.

Nearby

Close by stand the Gunpowder Tower and the Church of the Holy Spirit.

Practical information

• Address: Kościelna 2, Mieszkowice.
• The parish feast day falls on 6 August. The times of services are given by the parish on its website.