Domaszowice Rządowe: Chapel and local history

The chapel was built in the mid-19th century near the former bishop’s manor, which no longer exists. A painting of the Madonna hangs in the nave, with the date 1815 on its frame; the paintings on the side altars probably date from the late 18th century. Domaszowice lies at the foot of the Świętokrzyskie Mountains. Regional culture is also associated with the narrow-striped domaszowskie zapaski.

The chapel in Domaszowice Rządowe, also known as Stara Wieś, initially consisted only of what is now the presbytery. The nave and a small bell tower with a roof lantern were added later. It was built of masonry, whereas most of the other chapels in this construction project were made of wood. This makes it possible to place its design in context by comparing it with those other chapels.

Several details of the furnishings each have their own date. The nave contains a painting of the Madonna whose frame bears the date 1815. This does not mean that the painting itself dates from that year. The left side altar holds a painting of Saint Isidore, probably from the late 18th century; the right side altar holds a painting of Saint Anthony, probably from the same period. The chapel also has a holy water stoup made of Bolechów stone.

An iron crucifix from 1897 stands in the churchyard. It was donated by Franciszek and Maciej Strużyk. The crucifix is therefore among the later-dated features of the chapel complex, while the side-altarpiece paintings can only be dated approximately.

Domaszowice is considered the birthplace of the fashion for the so-called domaszowskie zapaski. These zapaski are regarded as the oldest type in the Świętokrzyskie region and are distinguished by their narrow stripes. Anyone interested in regional clothing can learn a specific local name and a traditional design feature here: this distinctive type and its striped pattern.

Local history also offers a range of points of interest. Walery Przyborowski, a January Uprising insurgent, historian, and writer, was born in Domaszowice. An iron cross on a stone pedestal bears an inscription commemorating patriotic demonstrations before the January Uprising: “Błogosław Boże Twojemu ludowi”.

A group of trees and overgrown park remains are visible traces of the former manor in Domaszowice. The chapel, in turn, was built near the former bishop’s manor in Domaszowice Rządowe. Both places are reminders of historic estates, but the remains described here relate to different manors.

Historically, two roads converged in Domaszowice: one from Kielce, now Domaszowska Street, and one from Szydłówek. A pilgrimage route to Częstochowa also once passed through Domaszowice. These roads are part of the area’s history; the pilgrimage connection should be understood as a former route.

At the end of the carnival season, Kusoki celebrations are held in Domaszowice at the initiative of the Domaszowianki singing ensemble. The harvest festival is also considered a long-standing tradition. These two customs add community celebrations to the historical themes, but differ in their occasion and timing.

For another point of comparison, you can also visit Wola Kopcowa.

When are the Kusoki held?

The Kusoki are held at the end of the carnival season and were initiated by the Domaszowianki singing ensemble.

What date is shown on the Madonna painting in the chapel?

The date 1815 appears on the frame of the Madonna painting in the nave.

What distinguishes the domaszowskie zapaski?

They are distinguished by their narrow stripes and are considered the oldest type of zapaska in the Świętokrzyskie region.

For the broader travel overview: Masłów.