St. Florian's Church

Kraków, Poland

The Collegiate Church of St. Florian was built between 1185 and 1216. It was burnt down many times in the 12th, 16th and 17th centuries. Notably, during the Swedish siege of Kraków, General Stefan Czarniecki ordered the city's suburbs burned down. However, during the city-wide fire which consumed a considerable part of Kraków in 1528, the church – containing St. Florian's relics – survived. Since then St. Florian, usually portrayed as a Roman legion officer carrying water, has been revered in Poland as patron saint of firefighters and chimneysweeps. The church's present appearance is the result of a Baroque renovation after the Polish-Swedish wars.

Since the 16th century the Church has been the University Collegiate. The coronation route began there, with the rector of the university senate welcoming new kings. The Church was also the starting point for royal funeral processions to Wawel Cathedral.

In 1667 the remains of Queen Ludwika Maria Gonzaga, wife of King Jan II Kazimierz, were placed there temporarily, and in 1818 the remains of Tadeusz Kościuszko were placed there. From 17 September 1949 to September 1951, Father Karol Wojtyła, who later became Pope John Paul II, worked there as a vicar. As Pope, in 1999 he elevated the Church to a minor basilica.

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Address

Kurniki 3, Kraków, Poland
See all sites in Kraków

Details

Founded: 1185-1216
Category: Religious sites in Poland

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Rami Paramo (14 months ago)
Very Affordable Place to buy Groceries in Krakow ??
Jiboo piu (2 years ago)
Like every other Church beautiful!
Ashe Roberts (2 years ago)
Beautiful Catholic Church in the heart of Krakow. It’s great to visit for a service, as it’s somewhat outside of the main touristy area, but still has all the grandeur of the other main churches in Krakow
Catalina Venegas (3 years ago)
Beautiful place full of history, memory of one of the greatest Saints of this country - John Paul II. It is very easy to focus and pray in this place. There's an adoration everyday. Highly recommend
Mikko Tyllinen (5 years ago)
Beautiful church! Lots of amazing details that create truly amazing atmosphere!
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