Church in Tropie - Romanesque Gem by the Dunajec
Tropie 633-316 Rożnów
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The Romanesque Church of Saints Świerad and Benedict in Tropie by the Dunajec River is a unique gem of medieval architecture in the Małopolska region of Poland. Its creation is linked to a hermit who lived here at the turn of the 9th and 10th centuries, and his legacy continues even after 1000 years.
Saint Świerad in Tropie
Saint hermit Andrzej Świerad came to Tropie at the end of the 10th century. He was not warmly welcomed by the local pagan people. So, he lived in an oak tree that provided him shelter after a lightning strike created a spacious hollow in its trunk. According to tradition, a piece of this oak is still next to the church in Tropie. After a short stay by the Dunajec River, Świerad returned to a monastery in Nitra.
The Romanesque Church in Tropie - History
The first church in honor of Saint Świerad and his student, Saint Benedict, was built in Tropie in the first half of the 11th century, around 1045, funded by King Casimir the Restorer. It was supposedly consecrated by Saint Stanislaus of Szczepanów in 1073. The church was rebuilt in the 16th century, and its oldest preserved walls can be found in the presbytery (the eastern wall of the church).
Interior of the Church of Saints Świerad and Benedict in Tropie
Inside the church, you can see fragments of Romanesque frescoes from the 12th century (in the presbytery). There are also several depictions of Saint Świerad: in the main altar with Saint Benedict, a carved figure hidden in the left side altar, and an engraving showing the hermit in the oak trunk. Notable is also a cross that supposedly floated here on the Dunajec River from a village flooded during a flood, and a valuable Gothic painting of the Madonna and Child.
Note: Visiting the church outside of mass and service hours is possible by phone appointment: phone number: 18 440 30 76
The Church in Tropie and Its Surroundings
Besides visiting the church itself, it's worth taking a walk around its picturesque surroundings. From the church, there is a beautiful view of Lake Czchowskie. You can walk down to the banks of the Dunajec River by following the 'stone rosary' path. It's also worth visiting the hermitage of Saint Świerad and the miraculous spring (it takes about 20 minutes to get there, head towards the cemetery, then turn right).
More about attractions and interesting places by Lake Rożnowskie can be read in this article:
Lake Rożnowskie - What to See in the Area?
Lake Rożnowskie is a man-made water reservoir on the Dunajec River. Nestled among picturesque hills near the eastern border of the Beskid Wyspowy mountains, it has been a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts for years. But the lake is not just about water; there are many treasures along its shores - discover them with us! ...
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