Best attractions and places to see around gmina gmina gmina Barczewo include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The area is characterized by its setting amidst forests, lakes, and rivers, with numerous bridges spanning the Pisy and Kiermas rivers. Visitors can explore historical buildings and enjoy the surrounding natural landscape. The region offers opportunities to discover its past and experience its environment.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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Probably the most prominent structure of the Brick Gothic style in northern Poland, rhe church was probably built between 1370 and 1380, after Allenstein was granted city rights in 1352. The impressive east gable was built shortly after 1429. During the Fourth Coalition War, the church was used as a prison for 1,500 Prussian and Russian soldiers in the winter of 1806/07, who used the furnishings as firewood. The current furnishings were then created, which fortunately survived the end of the war in 1945 thanks to the work of Pastor Johannes Hanowski. The baroque interior design that had been installed in the meantime was removed in 1866. In 1896, the main altar with its valuable Flemish paintings, which had been installed from the castle's St. Anne's Chapel, fell victim to a fire. In 1899, the roof was replaced. Around 1900, the composer Feliks Nowowiejski worked as an organist at St. James' Church. On June 28, 1972, the church became a co-cathedral of the archdiocese. In 1991, Pope John Paul II visited it, and in 2004, he elevated St. James' Church to a minor basilica. The three-aisled hall church was built without a choir. The tower was initially built free-standing only up to the church roof and was only raised to its current size between 1582 and 1596. With the construction of the side chapels, which were added between 1715 and 1721 together with a general restoration, the tower became part of the church. The current spire was added in 1867/68, with the golden star dating from the original building in 1596. At the same time, the façade was redesigned in a neo-Gothic style, with Ferdinand von Quast and August Stüler contributing. In 2001, the church received a representative main portal made of bronze.
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In 1334, a watchtower was established on the Łyna River. In 1346, the forest was cleared at the location for a new settlement, mentioned in a historical document from 1348. The following year, the Teutonic Knights began the construction of an Ordensburg (castle) as a stronghold against the Baltic Prussians. Allenstein was granted municipal rights by the cathedral chapter of the Bishopric of Warmia in October 1353. The German "Allenstein" referred to the river's Baltic Prussian name Alna, which meant a hind. Local Poles, having arrived along with German settlers, called it Holstin and Olsztyn, which are Polonizations of the German name. The castle was completed in 1397. The town was captured by the Kingdom of Poland during the Polish-Lithuanian-Teutonic War in 1410, and again in 1414 during the Hunger War, but it was returned to the monastic state of the Teutonic Knights after hostilities ended.
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Nicholas Copernicus lived here in Allenstein Castle in 1516, 1524, 1531, 1535 and 1538.
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Allenstein Castle was built in the 14th century and served as the residence of the grand masters of the Teutonic Order. Today the castle houses a museum that presents a variety of exhibitions and exhibits on the history of the Teutonic Order and the city of Allenstein.
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The Allenstein Castle was the seat of an administrator of the Warmian cathedral chapter and the main location of one of the three chamber offices that were subordinate to the chapter and, together with the episcopal chamber offices, formed the Bishopric of Warmia, which was granted as secular territory to the bishop and the chapter when the four Prussian dioceses were founded in 1245. In 1455, Allenstein Castle was taken over by the mercenary captain Knight Georg von Schlieben.[5] From 1516 to 1519, the office of administrator was held by the nephew and foster son of the Warmian bishop Lucas Watzenrode, the Warmian canon Nicholas Copernicus, who became known as an astronomer. Copernicus lived at Allenstein Castle during this time. As evidence, an astronomical table for calculating the equinox painted on the plaster of the castle's cloister has been preserved to this day. At the time of the war between Poland and the last Grand Master of the Teutonic Order in Prussia, Albrecht von Hohenzollern, he returned to Frauenburg, but was called back to Allenstein in the autumn of 1520. Archdeacon Bernhard Sculteti supported Copernicus with cannons and provisions so that Allenstein Castle could be maintained independently and in full independence from Poland.[6] It was not attacked and a ceasefire was concluded on April 7, 1521. Due to his successful defense, Copernicus was appointed Commissioner of Warmia and tasked with its reconstruction. Tiedemann Giese, the later Bishop of Warmia, was his assistant. Source Wikipedia
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Gmina Barczewo offers a rich history. You can visit the neo-Gothic Barczewo Town Hall, the late Gothic St. Anne and St. Stephen's Church from the 14th century, and the St. Andrew the Apostle Church, constructed in 1325. Nearby, in Olsztyn, you'll find the impressive Castle of the Warmian Chapter, which once housed Nicolaus Copernicus, and the St. James Co-Cathedral, a prominent example of Brick Gothic architecture.
Gmina Barczewo is known for its picturesque natural setting. It's often called the 'Little Venice of the North' due to the numerous bridges spanning the Pisy and Kiermas rivers. The area is enveloped by beautiful forests, clean lakes, and rivers, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
Yes, for panoramic views, you can ascend the tower of the Barczewo Town Hall, which offers vistas of Barczewo's bridges and the surrounding Warmian nature. Another scenic spot is the Bridge over the Łyna River between Redykajny and Dywity, which provides beautiful views of the river and peaceful countryside.
The region around Gmina Barczewo is popular for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and hiking. For more details on routes, check out the guides for Cycling around Gmina Barczewo, MTB Trails around Gmina Barczewo, and Easy hikes around Gmina Barczewo.
Absolutely! There are several easy hiking trails perfect for beginners and families. For instance, you can enjoy the 'Lake Swimming Area at Głębokie – Cross on the Tree loop from Zalesie' (4.9 km) or the 'Tumiany Campsite loop from Tumiany' (6.6 km). You can find more easy options in the Easy hikes around Gmina Barczewo guide.
Beyond the historical architecture, Barczewo is home to a Musical Salon dedicated to the renowned composer Feliks Nowowiejski. This offers a cultural insight into the region's artistic heritage.
Many of the historical sites are suitable for families. The Castle of the Warmian Chapter and the High Gate (Wysoka Brama), Olsztyn are both listed as family-friendly. The natural surroundings, with forests and lakes, also provide ample opportunities for family outings and gentle walks.
The region's natural beauty, with its forests, lakes, and rivers, is particularly appealing during the warmer months from spring to early autumn (May to September) for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and enjoying the waterways. Historical sites and cultural attractions are accessible year-round.
For those looking to stay outdoors, Camping Tumiany offers camping, agritourism, and tent sites. The wider Gmina Barczewo area also provides various guesthouses and hotels, particularly in and around the main town of Barczewo and nearby Olsztyn.
Visitors frequently appreciate the rich history and architectural beauty of sites like the Castle of the Warmian Chapter and the St. James Co-Cathedral. The scenic views from places like the Bridge over the Łyna River and the charming old town atmosphere, especially around Olsztyn's High Gate, are also highly rated.
Yes, the area offers cycling routes ranging from easy to moderate. For example, the 'Forest Cycling Trail – Intimate Beach loop from gmina Barczewo' is an easy 9.6 km ride, while loops like 'Bartołty Wielkie Village – Barczewo loop' are moderate. You can find a variety of options in the Cycling around Gmina Barczewo guide.
Yes, Barczewo, with its historical urban layout and central market square, offers various cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments. Smaller villages within the gmina, such as Tumiany, also have dining options.


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