St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church is located in Gdańsk, Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland. It is a Catholic minor basilica and a co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Gdańsk. This magnificent cathedral is the largest brick church in the world and also one of the largest brick Gothic buildings in Europe.

The foundation stone of St. Mary's Church was laid in 1343. Construction of the present church began in 1379, with the eastern part completed by 1447. It is a classic example of Gothic architecture and one of the finest Gothic churches in Poland. Unfortunately, the church suffered severe damage during World War II—the wooden roof and windows were completely burned, and most of the ceiling along with 14 large vaults collapsed. Reconstruction began in 1946 after the war, and the church was reconsecrated in 1955. This majestic cathedral measures 105.5 meters in length and 66 meters in width, and can accommodate up to 25,000 people. Its interior is adorned with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque paintings, many of which were created by renowned masters.

St. Mary's Church houses two large bells, cast in the 1970s. The slightly larger one weighs about 7,852 kilograms, and the smaller one around 2,600 kilograms, adding a rich resonance of bell chimes to the church.

St. Mary's Church, Gdańsk

Must-visit reason: The world’s largest brick church

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Poland[Poland]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Pomeranian Voivodeship [Pomeranian Voivodeship]

City where the attraction is located: Gdańsk [Gdańsk]