Cathedral of St. Mary Magdalene

Church in Wrocław

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Barbara Maliszewska

The Cathedral of St. Mary Magdalene (Katedra św. Marii Magdaleny) is one of Wrocław’s oldest churches, dating back to 1226-1232, when it was built as the city’s first parish church to serve the growing community of German settlers. Over the centuries, the church underwent significant architectural transformations, evolving into the Gothic, eight-arch, three-nave brick basilica that still stands today. Between 1355 and 1360, it became Wrocław’s main church, and by 1488, the two imposing western towers were completed. These towers were originally connected by what was called the “Penitents’ Bridge” or “Witches’ Bridge”, now serving as a popular viewpoint. At a height of 52 meters, it was once considered the highest bridge in Silesia, often used for orchestras and even firework displays during major city events. However, during celebrations for Kaiser Wilhelm I’s 90th birthday in 1887, fireworks ignited a fire in the northern tower, causing severe damage.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, two rows of chapels were added to the structure, further enriching its architectural complexity. From 1525 to 1945, the church belonged to the Evangelical Church, and on October 25, 1523, Protestant clergyman Jan Hess led Wrocław’s first Lutheran service within its walls. The church held immense religious significance in the Middle Ages, receiving sacred relics such as a thorn from Christ’s crown and a splinter of the Holy Cross, gifted by Emperor Charles IV in 1356. However, World War II left the church in ruins, with 70% of the structure destroyed, including its roofs, nave ceilings, choir, and much of its furniture and decorations. Further devastation struck on May 18, 1945, when an ammunition explosion in the southern tower caused parts of the façade and main portal to collapse. Restoration efforts began in 1946, ensuring that the church remains a vital part of Wrocław’s religious and architectural heritage today.

The Cathedral of St. Mary Magdalene appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Wrocław!

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