Górecko Kościelne –where 1000-year-old oaks whisper

If there had ever been a paradise in the world, it must have been here of all places, in Górecko Kościelne, famous for majestic ancient oak trees (a whole avenue is lined with them and owls nest in their branches) and clean streams, some of which are considered holy, like “Boża Łezka” [“God’s Tear”], which is said to have healing properties. It is an ideal place for people who are looking for peace and quiet, far from the hubbub of the streets and  not affected by civilization. The village is dominated by a 17th century larch church of St. Stanisław the Bishop. The patron saint of Górecko also has a chapel on the Szum River, among oak trees. Residents of Górecko and numerous pilgrims pray for heath, consolation and help in misfortune through the agency of St. Stanisław. Many hiking routes and cycling trails cut across Górecko, the water on the dam whispers proudly, “Płaczący kamień” [“Weeping Stone”] tells a story of betrayed love and avenues of one hundred-year-old sycamores in the neighbouring Florianka bring back the memories of the past. The magic of nature resists civilisation and devastation successfully.