Saint Bartholomew church in Chęciny, Gothic church in Chęciny, Poland

Saint Bartholomew church sits on a rock terrace cut into the slope of Zamkowa Mountain, rising roughly 300 meters above the valley. The building features octagonal pillars that support the side naves, with a 17th-century vestibule entrance displaying a tunnel vault design.

The present church was built in the 14th century, probably founded by King Władysław I Łokietek around 1315 and completed by his son Kazimierz III Wielki around 1350. In the first half of the 15th century the building was expanded. From 1571 to 1603 it was held by Arians, then returned to Catholics and reconsecrated. A thorough restoration followed in 1830–1840.

The church was taken over by Arians in 1571 and returned to Catholics in 1603, when it was reconsecrated. The main altar holds paintings of St. Bartholomew and St. Anne, and the late-Renaissance stalls show scenes from the life of St. Francis. The south nave contains the Renaissance Chapel of the Three Kings, founded by Kasper Fotyga, mayor and patron of Chęciny.

The church sits on a mountain slope and requires some climbing, but paths are generally easy to reach. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be aware that weather can change more quickly at higher elevation.

The Renaissance Chapel of the Three Kings in the south nave was founded by Kasper Fotyga, the mayor and patron of Chęciny. Its founder is remembered in the church's furnishings, and the chapel is one of the elements a visitor can pick out while walking the aisles.