Wawel Cathedral
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Wawel Cathedral - Jar.ciurus (CC BY-SA 3.0)





Description
The Wawel Cathedral (Katedra Wawelska) was first built in the 11th century but it and its second incarnation were destroyed so that the current main structure dates from 14th century with later additions explaining the mix of architectural styles, from Romanesque through Renaissance, the Baroque and even Neogothic. It is part of the Wawel Castle complex and has served as both the coronation and burial site of Polish monarchs. Highlights include the gilded main altar, various sarcophagus and cenotaphs, and the Renaissance Sigismund's Chapel with its golden dome. Trivia: Karol Wojtyła, who in 1978 became Pope John Paul II, gave its first mass there in 1958.
Access & Transport
The castle & cathedral complex is located in the centre of Krakow between the Old Town and the Kazimierz neighbourhood. The 'Wawel' tram stop is next to it and, for those who drive, the 'Plac na Groblach' car park is a 5 mins walk away.
Instructions & Recommendations
We strongly suggest combining this attraction with a visit of one or two areas of the Wawel Royal Castle. Note that the Cathedral Museum is closed on Sundays and the Cathedral is closed for mass on Sunday mornings.
Environmental & Social
We deem this attraction environmentally neutral. Part of the city's architectural and artistic heritages.
Conclusion
The cathedral makes for an interesting visit but more on account of the historical aspects, including the crypt and sarcophagus, rather than the interior artwork. Make sure to have a look from the outside, when checking out the Castle Complex, but consider the visit optional if you aren't that into religious and/or historical attractions.
Key positive
Unusual exterior architectural aspects
Interesting coffins & cenotaphs
Key negative
The main structure isn't particularly grand (relatively speaking)
Suitability
Partially accessible to visitors with reduced mobility and no religious denomination restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
April 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 15m
est. visit time:1h
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY09:00 - 17:00
TUESDAY09:00 - 17:00
WEDNESDAY09:00 - 17:00
THURSDAY09:00 - 17:00
FRIDAY09:00 - 17:00
SATURDAY09:00 - 17:00
SUNDAY12:30 - 17:00
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY09:00 - 16:00
TUESDAY09:00 - 16:00
WEDNESDAY09:00 - 16:00
THURSDAY09:00 - 16:00
FRIDAY09:00 - 16:00
SATURDAY09:00 - 16:00
SUNDAY12:30 - 16:00