The Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is a 13th-century church at plac Wszystkich Świętych 5 in Kraków’s Old Town, near the Market Square. Its Gothic brick exterior gives way to a colourful interior shaped by later decoration, with ornate chapels and Art Nouveau stained glass by Polish artist Stanisław Wyspiański. Look for the large window above the organ loft, often identified as “God in the Act of Creation,” and the mosaic of St. Francis on the exterior. The church is also connected to Karol Wojtyła, later Pope John Paul II.
A church dating to the 13th century
The Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi stands at plac Wszystkich Świętych in Kraków’s Old Town, close to the Market Square. Its history reaches back to the 13th century, when the Franciscans came to the city. The church has been rebuilt and expanded over time, so its interior brings together features from different periods.
The exterior is largely plain brick and stone, with a Gothic character. Around the apse, look for a mosaic of St. Francis flanked by two angels. The church is also associated with Karol Wojtyła, who later became Pope John Paul II; he lived in the nearby Bishop’s Palace.
Wyspiański’s stained glass
The interior’s strongest visual contrast is between its Gothic church structure and its later, colourful decoration. Polish artist Stanisław Wyspiański designed the Art Nouveau stained-glass windows. One prominent work, above the organ loft in the chancel, is known as “God in the Act of Creation.” Its flowing forms and vivid colours give the church a distinct look.
Take time to notice how the windows sit within the larger arrangement of chapels, walls and ceilings. On a sunny day, natural light brings out the colours in the glass. The stained glass is a central reason to step inside, even if you are visiting primarily for the church’s architecture.
The Franciscan cloister
From the transept, visitors can enter the Gothic cloister of the Franciscan Monastery. Fragments of 15th-century frescoes remain there, offering another view of the site’s history beyond the main church interior.
The basilica remains a place of worship. Services and religious concerts can affect visitor access, so pause and follow the church’s directions if an event is under way. Keep your voice low and treat the space as a working church as well as a historic sight.
Häufige Fragen
Where is the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi?
It is at plac Wszystkich Świętych 5 in Kraków’s Old Town, near the Market Square.
What should I see inside the basilica?
Look for the Art Nouveau stained-glass windows designed by Stanisław Wyspiański, including the large work above the organ loft known as “God in the Act of Creation.”
Can you visit the Franciscan Monastery cloister?
The Gothic cloister can be entered from the transept. It contains fragments of 15th-century frescoes.
Is there an entry fee?
The supplied information describes entry to the church as free.
