Church of St John the Baptist in Świętochłowice

The Church of St John the Baptist is the church of the Lutheran parish in Świętochłowice, built of brick in the Neo-Gothic style in the early 20th century. It stands on the square named after Fr Leopold Raabe.

Construction and design

Before the church was built, the parish worshipped in a former school on today's ulica Wyzwolenia, which has not survived. The church was built in 1900-1901 on land donated by Prince von Donnersmarck. The design was prepared by the architect Memminger of Merseburg, and it was adapted to Upper Silesian conditions by Nixdorf of Tarnowskie Góry. The consecration took place on 1 December 1901.

Form and interior

The building is distinguished by a soaring tower, to which four small turrets are attached. The interior is modest: a wooden altar, a pulpit and windows with Art Nouveau stained glass. The building is listed in the heritage register.

The parish

In 1904 a parsonage was built by the church, and six years later a plot for a cemetery on ulica Szpitalna was blessed. Polish Lutheran organisations were also active at the parish, including the Society of Polish Lutherans and the Youth Association.

Practical information

• Address: plac Księdza Leopolda Raabe 1, Świętochłowice.
• The church is in use, so it is worth checking the rules for entering the interior and the opening hours with the parish before a visit.