Churches & monasteries

Corpus Christi Basilica

Corpus Christi Basilica in Kraków’s Kazimierz district is a Gothic-Baroque church of the Canons Regular of the Lateran and one of the neighbourhood’s most important landmarks. Its foundation is associated with Casimir the Great around 1340, while the present building developed in stages until the end of the 15th century. Inside are a monumental altar, an unusual boat-shaped pulpit and Kraków’s largest pipe organ.

What to see inside

The strongest impression comes from the combination of austere Gothic architecture and later decoration. The two-tier high altar from 1634 is about 21 metres high and includes paintings by Tomasz Dolabella. Notice the Mannerist choir stalls from 1624–1632 and the Baroque boat pulpit supported by sirens and dolphins. The basilica also contains relics and burial places connected with St Stanisław Kazimierczyk.

Basilica and music

The organ was designed with 83 stops and about 5,950 pipes. Its two sections stand roughly 70 metres apart, creating the possibility of an acoustic dialogue. The church received the title of minor basilica in 2005.

Practical information

The basilica stands on Bożego Ciała Street in the heart of Kazimierz, near the Skałka sanctuary and the Vistula boulevards. Tourist information lists access outside Masses, usually from 9:00 to 18:00; ceremonies can change the hours. Enter quietly and respect the church’s religious function. Allow about 20–30 minutes inside and combine the visit with a walk through Kazimierz.