Basilica of the Holy Trinity

Basilica in Kraków

The Basilica of the Holy Trinity, also known as the Dominican Church, is one of Kraków’s most impressive Gothic landmarks. Founded in the mid-13th century, it has long served as the spiritual stronghold of the Dominican Order, whose friars were often referred to as the Black Friars. The church originally stood as a model of Gothic architecture in the city, but tragedy struck in 1850 when a devastating fire swept through Kraków, destroying around one-tenth of the city and severely damaging the basilica. Although the reconstruction efforts were swift, they could not entirely restore the original medieval character of the building, leaving behind subtle traces of alteration that keen observers can still detect today.

The Dominican friary attached to the basilica is intimately tied to the life and mission of Saint Jacek Odrowąż (known internationally as San Jacinto). He was one of the most prominent Polish Dominicans and a key figure in spreading the Dominican mission across Central and Eastern Europe. After his death in Kraków in 1257, his relics were enshrined in a special sanctuary chapel inside the basilica, making it a place of pilgrimage for centuries. His legacy remains one of the central elements of the Dominican presence in Kraków.

Throughout its long history, the Basilica of the Holy Trinity has also served as a burial place for Polish nobility and clergy. In 1289, Duke Leszek II the Black, ruler of Poland, was laid to rest here, setting a precedent for aristocratic interments. Among its chapels, the Chapel of Saint Dominic (Kaplica św. Dominika), also called the Myszkowski Chapel, stands out. Built in 1614, it is richly adorned with Renaissance and Baroque decorations, including intricate bas-reliefs of 16 members of the Gonzaga-Myszkowski family, who are buried within. The image of Saint Dominic, placed in the chapel’s altar in 1642, gained renown in later centuries for its association with miraculous events, further enhancing the church’s reputation as a sacred space.

In recognition of its importance, Pope Pius XII elevated the church to the rank of a minor basilica in 1957, cementing its status as one of Kraków’s most significant religious institutions. Its grand Gothic vaults, richly decorated chapels, and the weight of its history make it not only a place of worship but also a monument to Poland’s medieval and early modern religious life. The basilica’s Dominican heritage continues to be reflected in its active religious community, theological activities, and engagement with the city’s cultural life.

Today, the Basilica of the Holy Trinity is open daily, typically from 7 am until 8 pm or later. While visitors are welcome, it is advised to avoid touring the church during services. The Mass schedule is extensive, reflecting the basilica’s continuing role as a vibrant parish church. On Sundays and major feast days, Mass is celebrated at multiple times throughout the day, including early morning, midday, and evening services. Weekday liturgies are also frequent, beginning at 7 am and continuing through the evening, providing both worshippers and visitors many opportunities to experience the living traditions of this historic Dominican sanctuary.

The Basilica of the Holy Trinity appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Kraków!

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