Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Gdańsk
Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Gdańsk things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
PolandPomeranian VoivodeshipGdanskBasilica of St. Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Gdańsk
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St. Mary’s Church, also known as the Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is an iconic landmark in Gdańsk, Poland. As one of the largest brick churches in the world, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to Gothic craftsmanship and the city’s rich historical tapestry. Here, we delve into its creation, historical transformations, current visitor experience, and how it fits into a broader Gdańsk itinerary. Historical Context and Construction The foundation of St. Mary’s Church dates back to 1343, with construction spanning several centuries and finally completing in 1502. The church was conceived as a Roman Catholic parish but was transformed into a Lutheran church during the Reformation, reflecting the religious turbulence of the era. It returned to Catholicism after World War II. Built primarily from brick, the church exemplifies the Gothic style, characterized by its towering spires, intricate vaulting, and expansive nave. Over the centuries, St. Mary’s has undergone numerous restorations, especially significant after the destruction it faced in World War II, when it suffered severe damage during the Battle of Gdańsk. Post-war efforts meticulously restored the church to its former glory, preserving its historical and cultural significance. A Guide to Exploring St. Mary’s Church Upon entering St. Mary’s, visitors are immediately struck by its immense size and grandeur. Here’s a suggested route to fully appreciate the church: 1. Main Nave: Start at the central nave, the heart of the church, where you can admire the stunning high-vaulted ceilings and the play of light through the large, stained-glass windows. The sheer scale of the interior is awe-inspiring, with room to accommodate approximately 25,000 people. 2. High Altar: Move towards the high altar, a focal point of religious and artistic significance. This Gothic masterpiece features intricate wood carvings and is a central spot for worship and reflection. 3. Astronomical Clock: Don’t miss the remarkable 15th-century astronomical clock, which stands as one of the church’s most fascinating features. Created by Hans Düringer, it not only tells the time but also includes a calendar and zodiac signs, showcasing the medieval blend of science and art. 4. Side Chapels: Explore the various side chapels, each dedicated to different saints and adorned with unique artwork. The Chapel of St. Bartholomew and the Chapel of St. Anne are particularly noteworthy for their historical altars and frescoes. 5. Art Collections: The church houses a significant collection of Gothic and Renaissance art, including paintings, sculptures, and epitaphs. The famous Last Judgment triptych by Hans Memling is a highlight. 6. Bell Tower: For those seeking a panoramic view of Gdańsk, climbing the 400 steps to the bell tower is a must. The effort is rewarded with a breathtaking view of the cityscape and the Baltic Sea. Incorporating St. Mary’s Church into Your Gdańsk Itinerary Gdańsk is a city brimming with historical charm and modern vibrancy. Here’s how to include St. Mary’s Church in a day of exploration: • Morning: Begin your day at St. Mary’s Church. Allocate at least two hours to fully explore its interiors and climb the bell tower. • Midday: Head to the nearby Long Market (Długi Targ) for a stroll down this historic thoroughfare, admiring the colorful facades and stopping for lunch at one of the many cafes. • Afternoon: Visit the European Solidarity Centre, a short walk away, to delve into the city’s modern history and the Solidarity movement. • Evening: Return to the Old Town for dinner, perhaps at a traditional Polish restaurant, and enjoy the evening ambiance of this historic city center. Final Thoughts St. Mary’s Church is a cornerstone of Gdańsk’s heritage, offering visitors a profound glimpse into the city’s past and its enduring spirit. Its historical significance, combined with the sheer beauty of its architecture and art, make it a must-visit destination.
Cláudio Cardona
00
St. Mary's Basilica is the main, biggest and highest Church in Gdansk. It dates back to early 16c, built in Gothic style and counts as one of the biggest brick Churches in the world. Interiors are with high Gothic arched ceilings, pretty empty and whitewashed - result of WWII devastation and lootings. Few notable tombs inside including the assassinated Gdansk Mayor. You can climb the 409 steps bell tower for 16 Zl fee (around 4 Euros). Despite the high steps number, it's not that hard - only the first around 70 steps are narrow and spiral, while after them you climb a broad staircase built on the sides of a vast and spacious bell tower, so you can take your time and rest along the way not disturbing others. Views from up are amazing as it's the highest spot in city (though pretty small platform)
Dejan Braki
00
Enormous and quite impressive gothic place of worship. Currently a Roman Catholic church. Built started in the 14th century and completed in the 16th century. This Basilica is a triple-aisled hall church with a triple-aisled transept. One bell tower and five smaller spires. The 78 metre tower is worth visiting but involves climbing 405 steps! Once up there you can admire Gdansk. There is also a huge astronomical clock built in the 15th century showing the time and date, phases/position of the moon and sun in relation to the zodiac signs, and the calendar of saints. #letsguide, #poland, #gdansk, #visitgdansk, #oldtown, #podkramarska, #gothicarchitecture, #gothic, #familydayout, #basilica, #placeofworship, #romancatholicchurch, #church, #tower, #panoramicview, #astronomicalclock
Oliwia Biros
60
Basilica of St. Mary is a place full of history! Now under reconstruction, so some of the corners are closed for the visitors, but the tower with the roof top view is working. It is accessible only for the grand floor space. There is no elevator to the top of the tower. But if you can walk and make around 400 stair steps the splendid view over the old city of Gdansk can be seen from this great point. More of that, when I climbed to the top, there was a volonteer guy answering the questions regarding the city. He mentioned that he comes to share with tourists and locals the facts about the places he knows very well. It is free to visit the Basilica, but in orger to get to the top of the tower the price is 2.5 EUR, you can pay in local currency or in Euro too.
Valentyna Pliushch
10
Was amazed by the architecture of this Basilica, hence decided to explore a little inside. The high ceiling is very impressive, Makes one wonder how was this achieved in that era. Another surprise was that, for 10 euros you can climb the tower’s view point for some breathtaking view of the city. And if you manage to go during sunset, it adds more essence to an already amazing view. However, the climb up the tower involves 400 odd steps and around 200 of them are turn steps, where you are just climbing a steep and narrow steps round and round. So if you are someone who are not comfortable with lot of circular steps please avoid it. Because once you start climbing this there is no turning back. But the view is so much worth it. A must visit for sure
Juyin Inamdar
30
This humungous Gothic church was started in the 14th century and, with a volume of up to 190,000 cubic metres, is counted among the three largest brick-built churches in the world. Standing in the 66-metre-long nave you’ll need to take a moment just to wrap your head around the dimensions of this epic building that can hold 25,000 worshippers. A major reconstruction was needed after the Second World War, but all of its valuable fittings were saved. You can peruse treasures like an astronomical clock from the 1460s, the high altar raised in the 1510s and a marvellous Gothic stone pietà carved at the start of the 15th century. If you’re up for climbing nearly 400 steps you can battle your way to the top of the monolithic 77.6-metre main tower.
sumiethraa seenivasan
00
Nearby Attractions Of Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Gdańsk
Museum of the Second World War
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Basic Info
Address
Podkramarska 5, 80-834 Gdańsk, Poland
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Phone
+48 58 301 39 82
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Website
bazylikamariacka.gdansk.pl
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Reviews
Overview
4.7
(7.3K reviews)
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Description
St. Mary's Church, or formally the Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is a Brick Gothic Catholic church located in central Gdańsk, Poland. With its volume between 185,000 m³ and 190,000 m³ it is currently one of the two or three largest brick churches in the world.
attractions: Museum of the Second World War, Neptune's Fountain, AmberSky, High Gate, Długi Targ, Long Market, Brama Złota, Puerta Dorada, Muzeum Bursztynu. Oddział Muzeum Gdańska, Amber Museum, restaurants: Pierogarnia Mandu Gdańsk Śródmieście, Pierogarnia Stary Młyn, Chleb i Wino Chmielna Gdańsk Restauracja, Billy's American Restaurants Chmielna, Pueblo, Swojski Smak, Słony Spichlerz, Kawiarnia Drukarnia, Gdański Bowke, Restauracja KOS

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