About the Church
The Church of the Holy Name of Mary in Upyna is a fine example of sacred architecture, standing in the small town of Upyna, in the Diocese of Telšiai. This wooden church is a centre not only of religious life but also of culture and history for the local community.
The church was built in 1836, although its history begins as early as the 17th century. The first church in Upyna is mentioned in 1688 as a filial church of the parish of Šilalė. Although the first church burned down in 1705, it was rebuilt the very next year. However, another great fire destroyed this church in 1834, and the present wooden church was built in the period 1835–1836.
The church's bells hold particular significance. They were brought from the Carmelite church in Raseiniai when it was closed. In this way the old bells became part of the new church of Upyna. The bell tower was rebuilt together with the church after the aforementioned fire.
This church has interesting architectural features. Its form recalls a traditional dwelling house, while Classicist elements dominate the interior. The church has three altars, beautifully decorated, preserving a heritage of religious artworks gathered over many years. The churchyard, enclosed by a stone wall with gates, likewise lends this sacred site a particular charm and tranquillity.
Historical sources record that the church of Upyna has had various parish priests since the 18th century, each of whom contributed to the church's development. For example, Fr Antanas Bogušas was exiled for his activity, yet his contribution to parish life has not been forgotten.
The town's inhabitants, both Catholic and Jewish, also contributed to supporting the church and the community. Upyna was a small town, yet it had a rich and varied historical past. The structure of the town and the life that went on around the church attest to close cooperation between members of different communities.
The church of Upyna is not only a religious building but also a place where history, culture and tradition intertwine. It recalls the work and dedication of all those who contributed to its building and upkeep. Today the Church of the Holy Name of Mary in Upyna remains an important place for the community, where services, feasts and other events take place, strengthening the spirit and unity of the local people.
The church was built in 1836, although its history begins as early as the 17th century. The first church in Upyna is mentioned in 1688 as a filial church of the parish of Šilalė. Although the first church burned down in 1705, it was rebuilt the very next year. However, another great fire destroyed this church in 1834, and the present wooden church was built in the period 1835–1836.
The church's bells hold particular significance. They were brought from the Carmelite church in Raseiniai when it was closed. In this way the old bells became part of the new church of Upyna. The bell tower was rebuilt together with the church after the aforementioned fire.
This church has interesting architectural features. Its form recalls a traditional dwelling house, while Classicist elements dominate the interior. The church has three altars, beautifully decorated, preserving a heritage of religious artworks gathered over many years. The churchyard, enclosed by a stone wall with gates, likewise lends this sacred site a particular charm and tranquillity.
Historical sources record that the church of Upyna has had various parish priests since the 18th century, each of whom contributed to the church's development. For example, Fr Antanas Bogušas was exiled for his activity, yet his contribution to parish life has not been forgotten.
The town's inhabitants, both Catholic and Jewish, also contributed to supporting the church and the community. Upyna was a small town, yet it had a rich and varied historical past. The structure of the town and the life that went on around the church attest to close cooperation between members of different communities.
The church of Upyna is not only a religious building but also a place where history, culture and tradition intertwine. It recalls the work and dedication of all those who contributed to its building and upkeep. Today the Church of the Holy Name of Mary in Upyna remains an important place for the community, where services, feasts and other events take place, strengthening the spirit and unity of the local people.
Gallery and Resources
Archive captions are shown in Lithuanian.
Upynos Švč. Mergelės Marijos Vardo bažnyčia.
Signuotas akvarele averso apatinėje dalyje dešinėje ir reverse pieštuku.