In a remarkable discovery, the Church of St. Andrew the Apostle in Golina, a quaint village in Wielkopolska (Greater Poland), has been identified as the oldest entirely preserved church in Poland with precise dating. Built between 1334 and 1335, this wooden structure offers a unique insight into medieval craftsmanship and Polish heritage.
Explore Golina’s Hidden Gem
Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Wielkopolska, Golina is home to a truly extraordinary piece of history. The Church of St. Andrew the Apostle, constructed nearly seven centuries ago, stands as a testament to the skill and devotion of its creators. This sanctuary is not just an ancient structure—it is a living link to Poland’s medieval past.
The church is remarkable for its design and materials. The massive oak beams that form its structure were harvested from ancient forests, with the trees themselves estimated to have been between 250 and 300 years old at the time. This means that the wood used to build the church carries with it echoes of a time long before its construction, creating a unique connection between Poland’s natural and human history. Visitors can marvel at the intricate woodworking that has endured centuries of wear and weather, a feat of engineering that continues to inspire researchers and tourists alike.
The surrounding village of Golina adds to the church’s charm. Historically significant and steeped in tradition, the area offers a glimpse into rural life in Poland through the ages. Whether you’re exploring the village or attending a service at the church, Golina provides an experience that combines spiritual, cultural, and historical dimensions. For visitors, the Church of St. Andrew is not merely a sightseeing stop—it is a journey into Poland’s identity and resilience.
Custodianship and Future Prospects of The Church of St. Andrew the Apostle
Since 2021, Father Grzegorz Stachurski has served as the custodian of this exceptional sanctuary. His commitment to preserving the church and sharing its story has brought new life to the site. Under his guidance, the church has not only continued to serve as a place of worship but has also gained recognition as a significant historical monument. Efforts are underway to raise awareness about the church’s heritage, drawing both pilgrims and history enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.
Father Stachurski’s vision includes expanding the church’s role in the local community and on the national stage. Plans are being developed to create educational opportunities for visitors, including workshops, guided tours, and events that highlight the artistry and spiritual significance of the site. With the church’s newfound historical status, it has the potential to become a major cultural and tourist attraction in Wielkopolska.
At the same time, preserving the delicate structure is a priority. The wooden beams, while robust, require expert care to withstand the test of time. Collaborations with heritage preservationists and architectural historians are helping to ensure that the church will remain a beacon of history for future generations. The church’s continued survival relies on a delicate balance of careful restoration and respectful use, a challenge that its custodians embrace with dedication and passion.
A Sanctuary of Art and Faith
The Church of St. Andrew the Apostle is more than just a wooden structure—it is a sanctuary filled with artistic treasures and spiritual significance. At the heart of its interior is the revered painting of Our Lady of Consolation, a late 17th-century masterpiece. The painting, depicting the Madonna and Child, is imbued with a sense of grace and serenity. Over the centuries, it has become a focal point for local Marian devotion, attracting pilgrims who seek solace and blessings.
This sacred image is housed in a baroque main altar adorned with intricate carvings and gilded details. Flanking the painting are sculptures of St. Peter and St. Paul, symbolic guardians of the sanctuary. Above the altar, a painting of St. Andrew, the church’s patron, adds another layer of religious and artistic significance. The church also features smaller altars, including one dedicated to St. Joseph, depicted tenderly holding the infant Jesus.
Elsewhere in the church, visitors can admire a late Gothic sculpture of Christ in Distress, a powerful representation of human suffering and divine compassion. The baroque pulpit, with its vibrant polychrome and a carving of Jonah, is another highlight, demonstrating the rich artistry that characterises the church’s interior.
A Monument of Architectural Brilliance
Architecturally, the Church of St. Andrew stands as a masterful example of medieval wooden construction. Built using the log cabin method, the church is a single-nave structure with a narrower and slightly lower presbytery. Its gabled roofs are covered with wooden shingles, and the building’s wooden framework is complemented by the bell tower, a charming structure dating back to 1750. The tower’s sloped design and original gont roof add to the site’s historical authenticity.
Inside, the ceiling of the presbytery is adorned with a painted vault, a 1935 addition by artist Wiktor Gosieniecki. This artwork complements the centuries-old polychrome decorations that bring a sense of warmth and wonder to the space. The intricate carvings on the altars and furnishings showcase the craftsmanship of generations of artisans, each leaving their mark on this sacred space.
The church’s structure is also a testament to resilience. Despite being constructed entirely of wood—a material susceptible to decay and fire—it has stood the test of time, thanks to both the skill of its builders and the care of its custodians. It is a rare survivor in a region where wooden churches have often been replaced by stone counterparts, making it a particularly valuable example of Poland’s architectural heritage.
A Cultural and Spiritual Beacon
The Church of St. Andrew is a living monument to the faith, artistry, and history of Poland. Its centuries-old presence offers a window into the medieval world, while its continued use as a place of worship ensures that it remains a vibrant part of the community. For those who visit, the church is a place of inspiration, reflection, and connection—a space where the past and present come together in harmony.
