Explore the Wawel Cathedral with a local guide Tour in English

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ID: GYG478032-850179
Category:
Country: Poland

Duration: 01:30 hours


Description

Enter the ancient Wawel Cathedral with a guide, admire the spiritual and material heritage of one of the most famous temples in Poland, touch the heart of the magnificent bell!
Towering over the Old Town in Krakow, the Wawel Castle was for centuries the seat of Polish rulers, the administrative, scientific and cultural capital of the country. As a witness to the most important events in the history of Poland, it is still the hallmark of the country on the Vistula River and the destination of tourists from around the world.
Even before entering the castle, the colorful sacral building attracts the attention of the entire magnificent castle complex. This is the famous Wawel Cathedral - one of the most important temples in the country. Throughout its more than 1,000-year history, the cathedral, rebuilt and changing, has been the site of the most important events of local and international importance. Coronations and royal weddings were held here, bishops raised prayers on important matters for the country, commanders laid banners and trophies after won battles, and after their death they themselves were buried in the walls of the temple.
Currently, several side chapels and crypts located in the Cathedral's basement are places of remembrance or burial of kings and people recognized as meritorious. A stop at them is an opportunity to learn about the unique story of life and the circumstances of death. And the sarcophagi, monuments and tombstones made by the masters are admired masterpieces reminding of the trends in art over the centuries.
The cathedral itself, based on the life and death of St. Stanislaus of Szczepanów, a bishop of Krakow who lived in the 11th century, and who, according to tradition, was murdered on the king's order, has always been a sacred place for believers. One of the pages of the cathedral's history was also written down by the later Pope John Paul II, who was ordained a priest here and returned to it many times in sermons and during pilgrimages.
Like almost every old building, the cathedral hides many curiosities and secrets. Answers to some of the questions: why are some graves empty? what is a single hand clock? how much does the heaviest bell weigh? where are the bones in front of the entrance from? what is the curse of the Jagiellons - you will certainly learn thanks to an experienced guide.
Enter the majestic cathedral on Wawel Hill, listen to a bit of history, admire the architecture and immerse yourself in the world of spirituality with a thousand-year tradition.

Highlights

  • Get to know the Wawel Cathedral from the outside and inside
  • Admire the styles and craftsmanship of builders and artists from different eras
  • Hear the stories of the kings, saints and eminent people buried in the cathedral
  • Feel the atmosphere of a holy place, a place of pilgrimage
  • Appreciate the importance of the cathedral to local people over the centuries

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
* The Wawel Cathedral is an active place of religious worship. During religious, state, jubilee celebrations or visits by important guests, access to the cathedral, royal tombs and bell tower may be withheld or restricted without prior notification.
* A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements.
Meet your guide with "excursions.city" sign in the square of Saint Mary Magdalene (plac świętej Marii Magdaleny) under the statue of a priest with his hand raised.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.