This interesting place in Roztocze is hidden in a mysterious corner not far from Werchrata, in a now non-existent hamlet of the village - Manasterz. The monastery that once functioned here belonged to the Basilian order, and the size of the monument was impressive for those times
Ruins of the monastery in Werchrata
THE HISTORY OF THE ROZTOCZE ATTRACTION
The origins of the temple date back to the second half of the 17th century. According to local legend, the location where the temple was built, namely the Monastery Hill, was not accidental. Once, a great beam of light was said to have appeared over it. The interior of the church was adorned with a miraculous painting of the Mother of God of Werchrata, later known as Krechowiecka. The monks proved to be remarkably resourceful, which contributed to the development of the small settlement inhabited by the Ukrainian population. Things were going very well for the clergy in Werchrata, but only up to a certain point. The beginning of the 19th century brought difficult times for the Basilian monks. The monastery was abolished, and the monks were transferred to Krechów (nowadays in Ukraine). Then, in 1947, the entire population was resettled as part of Operation Vistula. The settlement along with the monastery fell into oblivion. Lack of interest led to the disappearance of these areas from the village landscape forever. Today, traces of the former residents are nowhere to be found. The same goes for the monastery. Only a part of the walls and the basement have survived. Nearby this Roztocze attraction, you can also find the remains of a partially filled well.
WELL-KNOWN INDIVIDUALS ASSOCIATED WITH THE SUBCARPATHIAN PART OF ROZTOCZE
On the hills near Werchrata, at the turn of the 19th century, Albert Chmielowski, known as Saint Brother Albert, also lived. Seeking peace and tranquility, he created a hermitage for himself here. Although there is no trace left of this interesting place in Roztocze today, a cross has been erected here to commemorate his figure. It can be found near the ruins.
THE DUAL MEANING OF MONASTYR HILL IN ROZTOCZE
The area where the Basilian monastery once stood now serves another important purpose. Few visitors to this Roztocze attraction know that it is also the resting place of Austrian, German, and Russian soldiers who lost their lives during World War I on the nearby grounds. The local cemetery also contains graves of members of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, reminding us of turbulent historical events.
WHERE TO FIND THIS TOURIST ATTRACTION IN ROZTOCZE
The area of the village is crossed by the green tourist trail named after Brother Albert. It begins at the Railway Station in Horyniec-Zdrój and leads to the market square in Narol. By following this trail, you will reach the ruins in Werchrata. You can start your hike in the village center, near the former St. George's Church. This religious attraction of Roztocze is also worth visiting. The one-way journey is about 4 km long. This is an ideal option for all hiking enthusiasts, allowing you to discover interesting places in Roztocze and enjoy some fresh air.
WORTH SEEING IN THE AREA:
PALACE OF THE PONIŃSKI FAMILY, BAJKA HEALTH RESORT - HORYNIEC-ZDRÓJ
FOREST CHAPEL IN NOWINY HORYNIECKIE
WATERFALL IN POLANKA HORYNIECKA
TSERKVA COMPLEX IN WOLA WIELKA
photo: K. Kłysewicz