The best cycling routes in Rezerwat Polder Sątopy-Samulewo

The Bernardine Monastery (a branch of the Franciscans) in Stoczek Klasztorny is one of the most important places related to the history of the Church in Poland. In the years 1953–1954, it was the place of internment for Primate Stefan Wyszyński, the head of the Catholic Church in Poland in the mid-20th century, by the communist authorities. Currently, the monastery houses a museum dedicated to his stay and the preserved internment cell. The physical conditions that Wyszyński had in this prison were significantly better than those of other opposition activists. I don't understand why this insignificant 2-year period of imprisonment is the object of such veneration. A place worth visiting. Especially since the sanctuary and monastery are currently under the care of the Marian Fathers (Congregation of Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary), who have served there since 1959.

On the way to the lost place. There will soon be a way inside. Unfortunately, I was a bit too early.

The castle in Barciany is an impressive example of Gothic Teutonic architecture from the 14th century, located on a small hill surrounded by former marshes. Although it lacks tall towers, it has retained its massive shape and defensive character, making it an interesting testimony to the evolution of monastic castles. After the war, it served economic functions and is currently closed to visitors, although its silhouette can be admired from the outside. The castle is easy to reach by bike, it is worth planning a short stop here for photos and to learn the history of the place.

Święta Lipka, although a small village in Kętrzyn County (Reszel commune), is known throughout Poland, thanks to the famous Marian Sanctuary. The Święta Lipka Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, together with the cloister and monastery, is a Baroque monument. Since 2018, it has had the status of a historical monument. The beginning of the cult of the Mother of God in Święta Lipka dates back to the early 14th century. According to legend, a prisoner sentenced by the court in Kętrzyn placed a figure of the Mother of God on a lime tree, and thanks to the prayers offered to her, he was pardoned. Since then, pilgrims have been coming to the village not only from Warmia, but also from further afield, e.g. from Warsaw, Białystok, and even Vilnius.

In this place, in the mid-14th century, the Augustinians built a church and a monastery. In 1524 they left Reszel. In 1580, after collapsing, it was rebuilt. In the 17th century, the church was managed by the Jesuits, who ran a school here (the Reszel College). In 1798, the church was demolished (it started to crack) and in the years 1799-1800, another one was built, which still stands today. In 1963, the church was handed over to the Greek Catholics.

The chapel building was founded in 1733 by the Markuszewski family. In 1929, the chapel was expanded. Baroque style, inside there is a Rococo altar designed by Christian Bernard Schmidt and 4 candlesticks made in Königsberg. The chapel is clearly visible from roads no. 590 and 594. A local road leads right to the building.

There is a restaurant in the castle courtyard - good food, decent beer.

Lidzbark Castle in Warmia