St. Mary's Basilica: A Majestic Gem in Kraków
Explore the breathtaking St. Mary's Basilica, a Gothic masterpiece in Kraków, featuring stunning art and a rich history waiting to be discovered.
A brief summary to St. Mary's Basilica
- plac Mariacki 5, Kraków, Stare Miasto, 31-042, PL
- +48124220521
- Visit website
- Monday 11:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 2 pm-6 pm
- Sunday 2 pm-6 pm
St. Mary's Basilica, located in the heart of Kraków, is a must-visit for any traveler exploring this historic city. This stunning Gothic church, with its distinctive twin towers, dominates the skyline of the Main Market Square. Built in the 14th century, the basilica is renowned for its remarkable altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss, which depicts the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Visitors are often captivated by the intricate details that reflect the artistry and spirituality of the era. As you enter the basilica, you can experience a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling square outside. The interior is adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows and striking wooden sculptures that tell the story of Christianity in Poland. Every hour, a trumpeter plays the Hejnał mariacki from the taller tower, a tradition that dates back to the medieval ages, adding to the church's allure. It's a unique moment that captures the essence of Kraków's cultural heritage. The basilica also hosts various religious services and concerts throughout the year, providing visitors with an opportunity to witness its spiritual significance firsthand. Make sure to check the schedule for any special events during your visit. With its blend of artistic beauty and historical depth, St. Mary's Basilica is not just a place of worship but a cultural landmark that invites tourists to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Kraków's past.
Local tips
- Visit during the weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
- Don't miss the hourly trumpet signal from the tower!
- Check for any special concerts or services happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), start by facing the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice). From the Cloth Hall, walk towards the St. Mary's Basilica, which is located at plac Mariacki 5. The Basilica is easily recognizable by its two tall towers. The walk will take approximately 5 minutes. As you approach, you will see the entrance on the square side.
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Public Transport
If you are further away, take tram number 1, 2, or 8 from any tram stop in Krakow heading towards the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny). Get off at the 'Sukiennice' stop. From there, walk towards the Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Basilica is just a short walk (approximately 5 minutes) straight ahead from the Cloth Hall.
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Walking from Wawel Castle
If you are at Wawel Castle, exit the castle grounds and head towards the Vistula River. Walk along the riverbank towards the north until you reach the footbridge. Cross the bridge and continue walking straight until you reach the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny). From there, follow the instructions above to reach St. Mary's Basilica.
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Walking from the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz)
From the Jewish Quarter, head towards the Vistula River and take the Dajwór street north towards the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny). Upon reaching the square, follow the path towards the Cloth Hall and you will find St. Mary's Basilica directly adjacent to it.
Attractions Nearby to St. Mary's Basilica
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Żak
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Plac Mariacki
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Bugle Tower
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Veit Stoss Altarpiece
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Church of St. Barbara In Krakow
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Hipolit House
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Kamienica Mennica (Margrabska)
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Little Market Square
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Mały Rynek Market
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Krakow City Cultural Center
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Krawl Through Krakow - Pub crawl
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Adam Mickiewicz Monument, Kraków
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Lost Souls Alley
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Rynek Underground Museum
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Muzeum Tortur - atrakcja historyczna Kraków
Landmarks nearby to St. Mary's Basilica
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City Walks Krakow
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Italian House
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The Kmita Palace
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Krak Tour: zwiedzanie Krakowa melexem
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Phoenix House
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Old Town of Kraków
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Eros Bendato
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Historical Museum of the City of Kraków
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The Spiski Palace
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Planty
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Lustrzany Labirynt
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Museum Kata Kacianora
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Plac Wszystkich Świętych
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Church of Sts. Francis of Assisi in Krakow
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Bazylika Franciszkanów św. Franciszka z Asyżu