Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi

The Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, in Krakow

The Basilica of St Francis of Assisi is a Gothic church of Krakow, famous for its magnificent Art Nouveau stained-glass windows and frescoes by Stanisław Wyspiański. The Krakow audio-guided tour stops here, with respect, to evoke this sanctuary with an exceptional decor.

The sanctuary with the stained-glass windows of Wyspiański

The Basilica of St Francis of Assisi is one of the oldest churches of Krakow, founded in the thirteenth century for the order of the Franciscans. But its fame is due above all to its extraordinary interior decor, made at the turn of the twentieth century by Stanisław Wyspiański, one of the greatest Polish artists, a major figure of the Young Poland movement. He created there sumptuous stained-glass windows and wall frescoes of Art Nouveau inspiration, with dazzling floral and geometric motifs, including the famous stained-glass window God the Father, of striking power. This marriage between the old Gothic architecture and the modern creation makes the basilica a unique masterpiece. A major sanctuary and a setting of art, the Basilica of St Francis of Assisi is discovered with respect.

What to see

You admire, with respect, the thirteenth-century Gothic church and above all its extraordinary Art Nouveau decor by Stanisław Wyspiański, its sumptuous stained-glass windows and frescoes with dazzling floral motifs, including the famous stained-glass window God the Father. The Basilica of St Francis of Assisi is a unique masterpiece of Krakow. It is a major stop to be discovered with respect.

Practical information

The Basilica of St Francis of Assisi lies in the heart of the old town of Krakow, reachable on foot. A place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; access and hours follow their own conditions, which vary. It is best to check them before coming and to respect the sacred character of the place.

What is particular about the Basilica of St Francis of Assisi of Krakow?

Its extraordinary Art Nouveau interior decor, made at the turn of the twentieth century by Stanisław Wyspiański, with its sumptuous stained-glass windows and frescoes with dazzling floral motifs, including the famous stained-glass window God the Father.

Where is the Basilica of St Francis of Assisi of Krakow?

In the heart of the old town of Krakow, in Poland.