St. Mary's Church, Gdańsk

Church in Gdańsk

St. Marys Church, Gdańsk
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Gyddanyzc

St. Mary's Church (Bazylika Mariacka) is one of the best places to visit in Gdańsk, a monumental Gothic structure that dominates the skyline with its 78-metre tower and colossal brick exterior. Built between 1343 and 1502, it is among the largest brick churches in the world, capable of holding up to 25,000 people. Its size, architectural precision, and serene whitewashed interior make it an unforgettable stop for visitors exploring the historic heart of the city.

Inside, the church reveals a treasure trove of medieval and Renaissance art, including its extraordinary 15th-century astronomical clock—one of Europe's most intricate. With over 300 tombstones, 31 chapels, and dramatic Gothic vaulting, the basilica offers a deep sense of history and reverence. It is often visited on walking tours of Gdańsk, especially by travellers seeking a blend of spirituality, art, and architectural grandeur.

History and Significance of St. Mary’s Church

Construction of St. Mary's Church began in 1343 under Teutonic rule and continued for more than 150 years. Built entirely of brick, the basilica reflects both the stylistic ambitions and economic power of medieval Gdańsk. Its immense capacity and towering structure made it a central place of worship for the city's diverse population, from merchants and craftsmen to rulers and foreign dignitaries.

The church’s most famous feature is its astronomical clock, created around 1470 by Hans Düringer. This masterpiece of engineering combines religious symbolism, astronomical data, and a procession of moving figures. Throughout its history, the church also served as a burial place for prominent citizens, resulting in a rich collection of tombstones and heraldic monuments.

Severely damaged during World War II, the basilica underwent extensive restoration. Today it stands as a striking symbol of Gdańsk’s resilience and cultural heritage.

Things to See and Do in St. Mary’s Church

Visiting the interior is one of the things to do in Gdańsk that offers both artistic wonder and spiritual calm. The bright, whitewashed space amplifies the height of the vaulting and the beauty of the chapels. Highlights include:

• The 15th-century astronomical clock, with its moving figures and complex celestial readings.
• The monumental main altar and beautifully carved wooden artworks.
• Dozens of chapels, each featuring paintings, sculptures, or tomb monuments.
• Over 300 historic tombstones embedded in the floor and walls.

For an unforgettable experience, climb the 405 steps to the tower viewing platform. This spot is one of the best places to see in St. Mary’s Church’s surroundings, offering sweeping views of the Old Town, the Motława River, and the distant shipyard cranes.

How to Get to St. Mary’s Church

Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport provides excellent connections across Europe, with easy public transport or taxi options to the Old Town. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Gdańsk on Booking.com.

Gdańsk Główny railway station is within walking distance, offering a pleasant stroll through the historic centre or quick tram access to the area near the basilica. You can easily check schedules and book tickets through the PKP Intercity website. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare prices and schedules all in one place.

Visitors driving into the city should use designated parking areas outside the pedestrianised Old Town before continuing on foot. If you are looking to rent a car in Poland I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting St. Mary’s Church

  • Suggested tips: Visit early morning for a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.
  • Best time to visit: Spring to autumn for optimal tower-view conditions.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free entry; small fee for tower climb.
  • Opening hours: Open daily, with extended hours in summer.
  • Official website: Check Gdańsk church sites for up-to-date hours.
  • How long to spend: 45–90 minutes, more if climbing the tower.
  • Accessibility: Main floor accessible; tower climb not suitable for reduced mobility.
  • Facilities: Restrooms, nearby cafés, and souvenir kiosks.
  • Photography tip: Capture the interior from the central nave to emphasise its vast scale.
  • Guided tours: Available through church staff and city tour companies.
  • Nearby food options: Many restaurants and cafés around the Old Town.

Where to Stay close to St. Mary’s Church

Gdańsk’s Old Town offers several excellent accommodation options nearby. Radisson Blu Hotel Gdańsk provides refined comfort on the Royal Route. For a contemporary experience, PURO Gdańsk Stare Miasto offers modern style near the river. For boutique charm, Hotel Podewils features elegant rooms with waterfront views.

Is St. Mary’s Church Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—St. Mary's Church is worth visiting for its monumental scale, extraordinary artwork, and breathtaking tower views. As one of the world's largest brick churches and a centrepiece of Gdańsk's skyline, it offers an unforgettable blend of history, architecture, and spiritual significance.

FAQs for Visiting St. Mary’s Church

Is there a fee to enter the church?
No—entry is free, though the tower climb has a small charge.

Can you climb the tower?
Yes—405 steps lead to a panoramic viewing platform.

Is photography allowed?
Yes, without flash in most areas.

How long is the climb?
Around 10–15 minutes depending on fitness.

Is the astronomical clock still working?
Yes, and it remains one of the most fascinating features of the basilica.

Nearby Attractions to St. Mary’s Church

The St. Mary's Church appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Gdańsk!

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Visiting St. Mary's Church

Address: St. Mary's Church, Podkramarska, Gdańsk, Poland
Gdańsk: 1 km

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