Kościół Pokoju w Świdnicy

Timber, clay and straw were to suffice for Świdnica’s Lutherans to build their own church. Imperial permission, granted following the Peace of Westphalia, came with restrictions: the church had to stand outside the city walls, without a tower or bells, and construction had to be completed within a year. Following Albrecht von Säbisch’s design, the carpenters nevertheless created a spacious, cross-shaped church. The first service took place on 24 June 1657, after ten months of work.

The exposed timber frame forms the building’s structure. Inside, galleries rise on several levels, with guild galleries and private pews added by successive generations. Their decoration preserves noble coats of arms, craftsmen’s emblems, biblical scenes and memorials to the dead. The Baroque splendour developed gradually: the baptismal font dates from 1661, while the present pulpit and altar were made in the eighteenth century.

The Baptism of Christ occupies the centre of the altar. Painted visions from Revelation unfold overhead, and the Hochberg family pew commemorates benefactors associated with Książ Castle. Two organs face each other across the interior. Built in 1909 by Schlag & Söhne, the large organ retained an older Baroque façade; the small instrument above the altar served as a reserve when the larger one broke down.

The church remains the place of worship of the Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Parish, hosting services and concerts. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001. Around it, Peace Square contains a cemetery, trees and historic parish buildings. Recorded narration accompanies visits to the church, while a separate audio guide also explores the square. Conservators continue to care for the timber, paintings and sculptures.