Sanok museum fire investigation: Historic wooden church destroyed

An investigation is underway following a fire that completely destroyed the historic wooden St. Nicholas Church and its furnishings at the Museum of Folk Architecture in Sanok. The fire occurred during the night of August 15–16, 2026, and also damaged adjacent buildings within the museum grounds.

The Krosno District Prosecutor's Office is supervising the proceedings, which involve charges related to causing a fire that threatened life, health, or large-scale property. While an expert opinion regarding electrical systems has ruled out an electrical installation failure as the cause, the exact origin of the fire remains unknown. A final determination is expected once a fire expert provides a report, which is anticipated no earlier than the beginning of next year.