St. Mary’s Basilica in Krakow, also known as the Church of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven, is located next to the Old Town district’s famous Main Market Square. The church was first constructed in the 13th century and was later rebuilt in the 14th century. The rebuilt church follows the Gothic style of architecture with its two beautiful towers. This brick church is a must-see attraction when you visit Krakow.As you head towards St. Mary’s Basilica you first see its two beautiful towers. The church’s main entrance is magnificent, with a Baroque portal added to the existing structure in the 18th century. Listen to the city’s famous bugle call – the hejnal mariacki – that is played out from the taller tower every hour. This call symbolizes the mythical trumpeter trying to alert the city to the attack by the Mongols. The call breaks off mid-way to commemorate the death of the mythical trumpeter as he was issuing the warning call. Enter the church and explore the beautiful interiors. Do not miss out on the famous altarpiece made of wood; this was built by Veit Stoss, a German artist, and took 12 years to complete. The altarpiece carries a depiction of the Virgin Mary’s Quietus amid the apostles. Check out the polychrome paintings by Matejko, Wyspianski, and Mehoffer around the altarpiece. View the superb 14th century stained glass windows in the church. Other things to see here include the two crucifixes, one small and made by Veit Stoss and the other slightly larger and made by Stoss’ pupils.
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