St Mary’s Church

The tall outline of St Mary’s Church and the asymmetry of its two towers crowned with spires draws attention to itself. Inside the gothic basilica one of the largest and splendid altars in Europe lies hidden. The altarpiece was carved between the years 1477 - 1489 in lime wood by Wit Stwosz (Veit Stoss) of Nuremberg. In the chancel the gothic altarpiece can be seen cast against the gentle light which falls from the medieval stained glass windows. The altar is opened with ceremony each day around 12 pm revealing a scene depicting the Dormition of the Mother of God. The scene captivates visitors with its skilful and detailed craftsmanship. The church hides within it still more masterpieces from many different epochs; it is well worth while to take a walk around the outside and admire the lofty edifice of the presbytery and the picturesque niche of Mariacki Plac (Mariacki Square)