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FORGOTTEN PLACES IN ROZTOCZE

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Roztocze is a region where the past has left extraordinary traces. Former monasteries, churches, palaces, and alleys that once thrived with life have now turned into ruins full of mysterious charm. If you are fascinated by such corners, we invite you on a unique journey through forgotten Roztocze. Here are five of the most intriguing tourist attractions in Roztocze that you must see to feel the spirit of bygone times and the magic of this region.

 

RUINS OF THE MONASTERY IN WERCHRATA – BASILIANS IN ROZTOCZE

In a picturesque corner of Roztocze, near the village of Werchrata, lies the mysterious history of the now-vanished hamlet of Manasterz. In the past, this location was home to an impressive monastery belonging to the Basilian Order. This unique structure, notable for its size, played a significant role in the development of a small settlement inhabited mostly by Ukrainian residents.

For many years, spiritual and everyday life in Werchrata flourished. However, the 19th century marked the monastery’s decline—it was dissolved, and the monks were relocated. A tragic turn of events occurred during the "Operation Vistula" in 1947, which forcibly relocated all the residents. The monastery fell into oblivion, and today, only fragments of walls and a cellar serve as reminders of its former grandeur.

 

The ruins, hidden in the scenic landscape of Roztocze, can be visited by following the Brother Albert Trail. The journey is best started in the center of Werchrata, near the former Church of St. George.

 

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Monasterz cerkwisko fot. K. Kłysewicz.jpg [1.55 MB] Ruins of the Monastery in Werchrata, photo by Krystian Kłysewicz

 

CHURCH IN HUTA RÓŻANIECKA – GREEK CATHOLICS IN ROZTOCZE

Before World War II, Huta Różaniecka was a village where residents belonged to two different churches—Catholic and Greek Catholic. Today, only Catholics remain, but the traces of the latter's presence are still visible. The most striking testament to their legacy is the ruins of a church, whose history dates to 1853 when a brick temple replaced an earlier wooden structure.

20230512_104429.jpg [6.82 MB] Tserkva in Huta Różaniecka, photo by Podkarpackie.travel

The church's fate changed in 1943 when it was destroyed. No one ever undertook its reconstruction, leaving it to the mercy of time. Today, only fragments of walls remain, yet the site continues to attract visitors with its unique atmosphere, reminding them of Roztocze's history. Around the church, several stone crosses can still be seen.

 

This tourist attraction in Roztocze is easily accessible, located right by the main road of the village, opposite the modern Catholic church.

 

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LINDEN ALLEY IN HUTA KRYSZTAŁOWA – REMAINS OF ROZTOCZE’S PAST GLORY

Before World War II, this land belonged to the Andruszewski family. Their estate featured a grand mansion built of larch wood, surrounded by a picturesque park. Unfortunately, the history of this place has a sad ending—the mansion was destroyed by the UPA in 1944. Today, its former splendor is remembered by brick foundations and a linden alley, which was part of the original garden design. The alley, stretching approximately 2 km, winds through a picturesque landscape, inviting leisurely walks.

 

The alley begins near the Cyclist Service Area on the Green Velo trail in Huta Kryształowa, making it an easily accessible and perfect spot for a historical and nature-filled break.

 

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aleja lipowa - huta kryształowa k. Kłysewicz.jpg [1.43 MB] Linden Avenue in Huta Kryształowa, photo by Krystian Kłysewicz

 

 

RUINS OF THE PALACE IN OLESZYCE – DISCOVER THE RESIDENCES OF ROZTOCZE’S FORMER NOBILITY

Oleszyce, once under the rule of families like the Sieniawscy, Ramszes, Czartoryskis, Potockis, and Sapiehas, holds remnants of past grandeur. One of the most remarkable pieces of its history is the remains of a palace that symbolized the wealth of the Sieniawski family. The construction of this residence was initiated by Hetman Mikołaj Sieniawski, inspired by the royal palace in Wilanów.

IMG_0909.webp [2.11 MB] Ruins of the palace in Oleszyce, photo by Podkarpackie.travel

The palace interiors once dazzled with opulence. Generations of owners maintained this magnificent structure, but it eventually succumbed to the destruction of World War II. Today, only earthen mounds and fragments of underground structures remain, which have been transformed into a viewing terrace.

 

Nearby, visitors can view a glass case containing a model of the palace, offering a glimpse into its former splendor. A small parking area and the tranquil remnants of a 19th-century park make it an ideal place to absorb the silence, peace, and history embedded in the heart of Roztocze.

 

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WATERFALL AND OLD MILL IN POLANKA HORYNIECKA

Although the waterfall in Roztocze appears to be a natural creation, its history is inseparably tied to human activity. Before World War II, this site housed a mill powered by the nearby stream. To enhance its efficiency, the area was excavated, creating a structure resembling the present-day waterfall.

Nature, however, had other plans. After a heavy downpour, rainwater created a rushing river that flowed towards Brusno, destroying the mill. The buildings and equipment were swept away and scattered. The mill was never rebuilt, but the waterfall remains—a relic of the past and a charming feature of Roztocze’s landscape.

 

Today, wild nature has overtaken the mill’s remnants, and among the thickets, fragments of the picturesque ruins can still be found. The waterfall itself, about 2.5 meters high, attracts nature and photography enthusiasts. It’s one of Roztocze’s favorite spots, offering not only beautiful views but also a touch of the mysterious history that makes it even more special.

 

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ALicja_Mróz_Wodospad_Polanka_Horyniecka_6336.jpg [2.79 MB] Waterfall in Polanka Horyniecka, photo by Alicja Mróz