Mary Magdalene church in Nowosielce, houten kerk in Polen
Mary Magdalene church in Nowosielce is a wooden structure built in the late 16th century using the Gothic style. It features a rectangular nave with a square vestibule, a narrow chancel with semi-hexagonal end, and a prominent bell tower crowned with a star-shaped steeple topped by wood shingles.
The church was officially dedicated in 1595 and likely replaced an earlier religious building on the site. Beyond worship, it served as a refuge, notably in 1624 when villagers sought protection inside during a Tatar attack, relying on the surrounding water and earthen ramparts for defense.
The church is dedicated to Mary Magdalene, a figure from Christian tradition whose name reflects the region's long-standing religious practices. It continues to serve as a gathering place for worship and community events, especially during religious holidays, where local residents celebrate and preserve their customs together.
The church is accessible from outside year-round for viewing and photography. To visit the interior, it is best to arrange in advance by phone, as the building remains an active place of worship.
The building was designed with defensive features, positioned strategically with surrounding water and earthen ramparts. This dual function as both church and fortress reveals how rural communities adapted their structures to protect themselves during dangerous periods.
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