The St Mary's bugle call
From the taller tower of the church every hour, live, a fireman-trumpeter plays the bugle call to the four points of the compass — 24 times a day in all. The melody breaks off distinctively in mid-phrase, which tradition links to the legend of a trumpeter struck by an arrow during an invasion. The noon call is broadcast by Polish Radio to the whole country.
The Veit Stoss altarpiece
Inside is the high altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss (Wit Stwosz), made between 1477 and 1489 — one of the largest surviving late Gothic winged altarpieces in Europe. The opening of its wings takes place daily at a set hour and is an event in itself.
Visiting
- The visitors' entrance is separate from the one for worshippers — tickets apply
- The bugle tower — open seasonally for climbing (steep stairs and limited numbers)
- The interior — wall paintings by Jan Matejko, stained glass and star vaults
- Keep quiet and dress suitably for a place of worship
How to get there and practical info
- Address
- plac Mariacki 5, Kraków (a corner of the Main Market Square)
- Visitor admission
- Ticketed; a separate entrance from the one for worshippers
- The bugle call
- Live from the tower every hour
- Opening of the altarpiece
- Daily at a set hour
- From the market square
- Directly on the Main Market Square
- Time needed
- 30–45 minutes
When to go
Quieter, with good light on the front from the square.
Queues at the visitors' entrance; best in the morning.
Fewer visitors and a comfortable visit inside.
The interior is especially atmospheric, and busier at Christmas.
Other sights in Kraków
Straight-line distances from „St Mary's Church" — calculated from real coordinates. By road it is often further.
Where to stay nearby
Places from our list that have St Mary's Church within walking distance or a short drive.
