St. Mary's Basilica

Map Location

Maps detected!

---

This page uses Google Maps. The map will be loaded from Google-Server and some of your data may be used by Google. In order to see the maps, please click accept. You can also click here to see further information related to this.

Deny Accept

Type:

Attractions

Categories:

See & do,  Attractions

General info

Nestled in the heart of Kraków's historic Old Town, St. Mary's Basilica stands as a testament to Poland's rich architectural and cultural heritage. This Gothic masterpiece, with its distinctive twin towers, commands attention from every corner of the Main Market Square. The basilica's origins trace back to the early 13th century, though the structure seen today was consecrated in 1320 after being rebuilt in Gothic style following Tartar raids that left the original church in ruins.

One of the basilica's most captivating features is its two asymmetrical towers. The taller, known as the Bugle Call Tower, rises to 82 meters and has historically served as a watchtower. Every hour, a trumpeter plays the Hejnał Mariacki—a traditional bugle call that abruptly ends mid-melody, commemorating a legendary 13th-century trumpeter who was struck by an arrow while sounding the alarm of an impending Mongol attack.

Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking interior adorned with vibrant polychrome murals designed by Jan Matejko, Poland's esteemed history painter. The starry vaulted ceiling, coupled with the luminous stained glass windows crafted by Matejko's students, Stanisław Wyspiański and Józef Mehoffer, bathes the nave in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Dominating the chancel is the magnificent wooden altarpiece by Veit Stoss, a 15th-century masterpiece depicting the Virgin Mary's Quietus among the apostles. This altarpiece, considered one of the largest Gothic altars in Europe, took Stoss 12 years to complete and remains a focal point for art enthusiasts.

For those seeking a panoramic view of Kraków, ascending the Bugle Call Tower is a rewarding endeavor. The climb, though steep, offers an unparalleled perspective of the city's medieval layout and the bustling market square below. It's advisable to check the basilica's official website for current visiting hours and any necessary arrangements for tower access.

St. Mary's Basilica is not merely a historical monument but a living part of Kraków's cultural fabric. Attending a mass or one of the frequent classical music concerts held within its hallowed walls provides a deeper appreciation of its spiritual and acoustic grandeur. The basilica's proximity to other notable landmarks, such as the Cloth Hall and Wawel Castle, makes it an essential stop on any itinerary exploring Kraków's rich tapestry of history and art.

In summary, St. Mary's Basilica offers a multifaceted experience that seamlessly blends historical intrigue, architectural splendor, and cultural vibrancy. Its storied past, coupled with its active role in the present, ensures that visitors leave with a profound sense of connection to Kraków's enduring legacy.

Gallery

BUSINESS REVIEWS

There are no reviews at the moment

Verified Review Policy

100% Genuine

There are many online platforms that accept customer reviews these days, and we all know that these reviews can be faked. So when you see our green tick, you have the safety of knowing that every review on Top Property has been independently investigated by us, and verified as a genuine customer.

The way we verify any review is with evidence of the contract between that business and client, like a copy of an invoice, a signed contract, a receipt of payment, or a related internal company record.

This information is supplied to us when that review is submitted, and it’s only when we are satisfied it’s legitimate, that will we publish it. This information we use as evidence is provided to us by the company which that review is about, and or by the client who paid for those products and or services.