Discover Kołbacz
Accommodation in Kołbacz
Kołbacz is defined by its former Cistercian monastery complex, which includes a church and several buildings with different historical functions. Romanesque and Gothic architecture can be found here, alongside traces of later uses. Visitors interested in history and architecture will find a clear focus for their stay. Cyclists can also consider Kołbacz when choosing where to stay: a 9 km cycle path connects Stare Czarnowo, Kołbacz and the city of Szczecin.
A monastery complex spanning several periods
The protected Cistercian complex is considered an outstanding example of the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture. Its features include innovative architectural solutions and high-quality detailing. The complex was declared a Historical Monument by an ordinance of the President of the Republic of Poland dated 3 July 2014. Its history also includes later uses: the former monastery was followed by a summer residence of the Pomeranian dukes and a state estate.
Individual buildings tell of other functions as well. In earlier centuries, the Gothic wing was inhabited by the order’s monks. Both the abbot’s house and the defensive tower date from the 14th century. These different types of buildings give the complex a distinctive character: religious architecture stands alongside residential and defensive buildings, each raising its own questions about use and history. This offers a varied way to explore the site’s history together; children, for example, can compare the different architectural forms and former functions.
Church and museum
The area of the Historical Monument includes the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Romanesque-Gothic brick church has an unusual rose window. The main nave also features a unique timber structure; in the 16th century, this part was repurposed as a granary. The church, rose window and roof structure thus point to different aspects of the complex: its brick architecture, its craftsmanship and a later change in use. These are details in their own right that add to the picture of the former monastery beyond simply describing it as a church complex.
The Museum of the Former Cistercian Abbey (Muzeum Dawnego Opactwa Cystersów) is housed in the historic granary and the conversi house. It organises exhibitions and cultural events showcasing the Cistercian heritage and the revitalised post-monastic buildings. The museum and the buildings that house it thus connect the exploration of the monastery’s heritage with the site’s later history. To contact the museum by phone, interested visitors can call Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 to 13:00 or from 15:00 to 19:00. These times refer to the availability of telephone contact.
Cycle path and choice of where to stay
Cyclists can currently use a 9 km cycle path in the Stare Czarnowo municipality, connecting Stare Czarnowo, Kołbacz and Szczecin. Kołbacz also lies on the tourist route “South of Szczecin – Along the Lubinus Map” (“Na południe od Szczecina – Szlakiem mapy Lubinusa”). These are two distinct points of reference for planning a trip: the cycle path is described as a connection between the three places named, while the tourist route places Kołbacz along its course.
Choosing Kołbacz as a place to stay depends on whether you want to visit the monastery complex or include the cycle path described in your travel plans.
More places to discover: Moryń, Cedynia, Stare Czarnowo, Krzywin, Gryfino, Steklno, Nawodna and Nowe Czarnowo.
To the wider travel guide: Gryfino.
