Did you know that in the heart of Kraków's Old Town, at All Saints' Square, you can find one of Stanisław Wyspiański's most recognizable works? Inside the Franciscan Basilica you'll see the artist's impressive stained glass windows and polychromes — and a few simple tricks will let you surprise your friends and notice details most tourists miss.
The basilica's interior blends Gothic and Neo-Gothic styles, but it's the turn-of-the-century decorations that draw attention. The most famous stained glass is the large composition often described as 'God the Father — Creation of the World' placed in the west window; it makes a huge impression even from afar.
In the chancel you'll find the "Elements" cycle and Wyspiański's figurative stained glass: Saint Francis, the Blessed Salomea and other motifs that combine vegetal ornamentation with religious symbolism. There are also polychromes in the transept and chancel that harmonize with the colors of the glass.
Pay attention to the details: floral motifs and tiny 'stars' in the compositions, the geometric divisions of the glass and the way the artist used light to achieve depth and a 'blooming' of colors.
The first Franciscan church on this site was built in the 13th century and the building was repeatedly rebuilt after fires and damage. The appearance we see today is the result of medieval solutions complemented by later conservation work and Neo‑Gothic decoration.
Wyspiański's decorations and stained glass were created around the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries; in later decades they underwent conservation work, and from time to time their condition requires intervention — a reminder of how delicate such works are.
1) Start by looking at the façade — the 'God the Father' window is best viewed from All Saints' Square in sunny but not direct light (for example late morning or early afternoon).
2) Enter the nave and ask your friends to stand toward the back — they'll then see the polychrome compositions and how the stained glass interacts with the light. It's a simple 'before and after' scene that always impresses.
3) Point out floral motifs and the little stars in the details — most people focus only on the main figures. Tell a short anecdote about Wyspiański as an interior designer to add context.
4) Show the spot that used to be Karol Wojtyła's favorite bench — tourists often miss it, and it's an interesting, personal touch of the city's history.
5) If you have a camera without flash, take a photo of a large window from the inside — with the right light angle the colors come out spectacularly. Be mindful of photography restrictions during services.
6) End with a short story about conservation: windows are sometimes dismantled and restored, and in the past tram vibrations and time affected their condition — this gives a behind-the-scenes feel to the monument's story.
Address: pl. Wszystkich Świętych 5, Kraków — the basilica is right in the center of the Old Town, close to the Main Market Square.
Basilica hours: usually open daily; Masses and services follow a regular schedule. Tourist visits typically take place in the morning and afternoon — before your visit it's best to check current hours on the basilica's official channels or by phone.
Basilica contact phone: +48 12 422 53 76. For larger groups or special visits (for example a photo session) it's recommended to contact them in advance.
Summer is high season — the largest crowds gather between 11:00 and 15:00. To avoid crowds, choose early morning or late afternoon, or come just before a service (while respecting participants).
Keep in mind that during conservation work some windows or interior sections may be unavailable. There are also photography restrictions during services and religious events.
On a hot day the basilica's interior is a pleasant shelter from the heat — enjoy it, but keep quiet and respect the place of worship.
1) Don't plan your visit during major services if your goal is calm, photographic sightseeing.
2) Do not use flash: it can damage historic polychromes and stained glass and disturb worshippers.
3) Do not touch the glass or window frames — these are thin, historic panes set in delicate frames and protections.
4) Don't assume everything is accessible: conservation and renovation often mean temporary restrictions.
After leaving the basilica head toward the Main Market Square and the surrounding lanes — you'll find many well‑rated places. If you enjoy traditional Polish cuisine and historic atmosphere, restaurants by the Market offer classic options; for coffee lovers, try the small cafés tucked in the side streets of the Old Town.
If you're planning to stay overnight, choose accommodation within the Old Town or the Kazimierz district — you'll be close to main attractions and have easy transport links. When booking, check reviews and the location relative to All Saints' Square.
Is entry to the basilica paid? Usually entrance to the church is free, but special guided tours, temporary exhibitions or tower access may have fees — check current information before your visit.
Can you photograph the stained glass? Yes, usually photography without flash is allowed; photography may be restricted during services and religious events.
Are the stained glass windows original? Most of the stained glass and polychromes inside originate from Wyspiański's designs created around the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries; over time they have undergone conservation.
If you found this text helpful, share it with friends — ideally before a trip to Kraków so your joint visit has a plan and a few surprising moments.
For a truly exceptional visit, consider booking a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — her knowledge adds access to hidden details and stories that are hard to find on your own.
Wear comfortable shoes — the Old Town area involves walking on cobblestones.
Respect silence and dress modestly when entering the basilica — it is an active place of worship.
If you plan photography, check for signs at the entrance about restrictions and avoid tripods during services.
Start at the west façade and view the main window from All Saints' Square (5–10 minutes).
Enter the nave and pause at the back to view the whole composition (5 minutes).
Walk to the chancel and study the 'Elements' cycle and detail motifs (10–20 minutes).
Finish with a quick stop at the place associated with Karol Wojtyła and a short talk about conservation and history (5–10 minutes).
