10 Things to Do in St. Mary's Church (Toruń), Poland
St. Mary's Church (Toruń) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Toruń, Poland. Located in the heart of the city, the church dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest Gothic churches in the country. The church is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. From its stunning architecture to its rich history, there's plenty to explore at St. Mary's Church. Here are 10 things to do in St. Mary's Church (Toruń), Poland.
1. Take in the Architecture
St. Mary's Church is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The church was built in the 13th century and features a variety of architectural elements, including pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. The church is also adorned with numerous sculptures, including a 14th-century sculpture of the Virgin Mary.
2. Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross
The Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most important parts of St. Mary's Church. The chapel dates back to the 15th century and is located in the northern part of the church. It is home to a number of important works of art, including a painting of the Crucifixion by the Italian painter, Giovanni Battista Crespi.
3. Tour the Crypt
St. Mary's Church is home to a crypt that dates back to the 16th century. The crypt is located in the southern part of the church and is home to a number of tombs, including the tomb of the famous astronomer, Johannes Hevelius. The crypt is also home to a number of sculptures, including a sculpture of a skeleton holding a cross.
4. Climb the Tower
St. Mary's Church is home to a 79-meter-tall tower, which is one of the tallest towers in Poland. Visitors can climb the tower to get a stunning view of the city. The climb is not for the faint of heart, as the tower has more than 300 steps.
5. Attend a Service
St. Mary's Church is an active place of worship and visitors are welcome to attend services. The church offers services in both Polish and English and visitors can also take part in special services, such as the Easter Mass.
6. Take a Guided Tour
St. Mary's Church offers guided tours of the church and its grounds. The tour lasts about an hour and covers the history of the church, its architecture, and its art. The tour also includes a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross and the crypt.
7. Visit the Museum
St. Mary's Church is home to a museum that showcases the church's history and art. The museum features a number of artifacts, including a painting of the Virgin Mary and a sculpture of a skeleton holding a cross. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, such as lectures and workshops.
8. Explore the Grounds
St. Mary's Church is located in the heart of Toruń and its grounds offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. Visitors can wander through the gardens and admire the sculptures, or take a stroll through the cemetery, which is home to a number of graves from the 18th century.
9. Attend a Concert
St. Mary's Church is home to one of the most important organs in Poland. The church hosts a number of concerts throughout the year, including classical music, jazz, and choral performances.
10. Visit the Gift Shop
St. Mary's Church also has a gift shop, which sells a variety of souvenirs, including books, postcards, and religious artifacts. The gift shop also sells a variety of local products, such as honey, jams, and candles.
St. Mary's Church (Toruń) is one of the most important landmarks in Poland and offers visitors plenty of things to explore. From its stunning architecture to its rich history, there's something for everyone at St. Mary's Church. Whether you're looking for a place to explore or a place to worship, St. Mary's Church is the perfect destination.