Making time for the Churches of Peace in Lower Silesia

Look up, then read how the church was built

Old buildings interest us most when looking at them gives us questions to ask. At the Churches of Peace, the painted galleries and timber framing give the eye plenty to follow above the ground floor. Spend a little time looking around, then read how such large interiors came to be built from these materials. The construction is part of what interests us here.

The Lutheran churches in Świdnica and Jawor were built in the seventeenth century after the Peace of Westphalia. Their communities had to build outside the town walls, using timber, clay, sand and straw. UNESCO listed the two churches together as a World Heritage property in 2001. They remain places of worship, so visitor hours can change for services, concerts and maintenance.

Give each town room in the day

Świdnica and Jawor are separate stops southwest of Wrocław. We’d choose one church first and check its visiting hours, then see whether a second stop fits comfortably. Leave time for the journey between towns and the walk from the station or parking area. Being able to spend longer in one building is part of the appeal for us.

Inside, keep voices low and follow the photography signs. Avoid photographing worshippers during a service. The building’s history is one reason to come, and its use today is part of the visit as well. Check the current schedule before setting out, especially if a church interior is the main purpose of your day.

• Check each church’s opening times and your transport connections before leaving.
• Follow photography signs and give services and worshippers space.