Churches & monasteries

Cathedral Basilica of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Tarnów

The Cathedral Basilica of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Tarnów stands beside the market square and is the most important monument in the city’s old town. The 14th-century Gothic church is best known for its Renaissance tombs of the Tarnowski and Ostrogski families, associated with Bartolommeo Berrecci, Jan Maria Padovano and Jan Pfister. Since 2006 it has also been a sanctuary of Our Lady of Sorrows.

Gothic church and rebuilding

The original church was a simpler Gothic building, enlarged and altered over the following centuries. Its present character largely reflects a Neo-Gothic rebuilding in 1889–1900, while medieval elements and the basilica layout survive. The western tower is about 72 metres high and dominates the market square.

Tombs and sanctuary

The most valuable monument is the tomb of Barbara Tarnowska née Tęczyńska, associated with Berrecci’s workshop. The presbytery also contains the monumental tomb of Hetman Jan Tarnowski and his son, as well as the Ostrogski family monument. Seven burial crypts lie beneath the cathedral; access to some of them can change, so check current information.

How to visit

Entry to the cathedral is free, but it remains an active place of worship. Visit outside services and check current hours on the parish website or with the Tarnów Tourist Information Centre. Combine the interior with the market square, town hall, Kapitulna Street and a walk through the Renaissance old town.