Churches & monasteries

St. Peter and Paul-Collegiate in Kruszwica

The Collegiate Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Kruszwica is one of Poland’s best-preserved Romanesque monuments. It stands on the eastern shore of Lake Gopło, where austere stone walls, rounded arches and simple forms contrast with the landscape of Kuyavia. It is an important stop for anyone interested in medieval architecture and the Piast Trail.

A Romanesque basilica by the lake

Construction began in the first half of the 12th century, around 1120. The church is a three-aisled pillar basilica on a Latin-cross plan, with a transept and semicircular apses. Its eastern façade, with five apses, is one of the most distinctive features. The walls were built from sandstone and granite blocks, while the western section combines a Romanesque lower part with higher brick sections.

Details worth seeing

The southern side has three Romanesque portals. Inside are, among other features, a sandstone baptismal font from the 11th century, a granite font from the 12th century, late-Gothic sculptures from the early 16th century and 18th-century kneeling angels. Also look for the 17th-century marble plaques dedicated to the origins of the church and the first bishops of Kruszwica.

Planning your visit

The collegiate church remains an active place of worship, so sightseeing must fit around Masses and parish events. Check the current service schedule on the parish website before travelling. You can combine the visit with a walk by Lake Gopło, the Mouse Tower and other Kruszwica landmarks. Keep quiet inside and do not take photographs during services without permission.