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St. Mary's Basilica, Krakow

4.7

#4 of 61 in Historic Sites in Krakow

Architectural Building Church

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Featuring two prominent towers, the red brick St. Mary's Basilica dominates the main square of the city's Old Town. Built in the early 13th century, the church features the largest Gothic altarpiece in the world, carved by German sculptor Veit Stoss. The masterpiece was claimed by the Nazis and moved to Germany during World War II. Recovered and restored after the war, it now sits behind the church's high altar. Admire the bottom of the central panel, which depicts the death of Jesus' mother. On the hour, you can hear the trumpet signal play from the top of the taller tower. Make St. Mary's Basilica a part of your Krakow vacation plans using our Krakow trip planner.

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St. Mary's Basilica Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

6,697 reviews

Google

4.7

facebook

4.5

2 likes

• By eph9

  Worth the 10zloty ticket to go in for a wander around. Still some renovations going on at the alter but still so much to see.  more »

• By Hol_B88

  Absolutely stunning inside, the decorative interiors are breathtaking! Well worth the visit! We also loved seeing the trumpet man on the hour, and it’s great to see history kept alive.  more »

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Google

• By Iain Connelly

  Although I am not a religious person this is a stunning building both inside and out. Tickets are available across the street for the "tourist" entrance and dont cost much. Special attention should be made to the ceiling, it is fantastic. Every hour a trumpet player plays from one of the towers and the tune ends very abruptly, this is meant to happen as it dates back centuries. I suggest you research the story behind the trumpet as well. Slap bang in the middle of the main square in the old town so very accessible.

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• By Jesse Smit

  Very beautiful church which is a must see attraction in Krakow. Located in the city centre so there is no excuse for you not to go here. Every hour they have a guy playing a trumpet in one of the towers. This church has a rich history. I recommend joining one of the free walking tours and hearing some of the stories about this building.

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