The Poznań Cathedral is one of the most important sites connected with the origins of the Polish state and the Christianisation of the country. It was here, on the Cathedral Island (Ostrów Tumski), that the first episcopal seat of the Piast state was established, headed by Bishop Jordan.
The Poznań Cathedral is like a textbook of architectural styles, guiding visitors through successive eras page by page. In the crypts, remnants of the first church on this site have been preserved, while a fragment of the façade consists of Romanesque stone blocks, and the main structure is built of Gothic red brick. The chapels surrounding the cathedral’s nave are primarily examples of Baroque style. The cathedral’s present appearance is the result not only of stylistic changes over the centuries but also of deliberate reconstruction following the destruction of the Second World War.
The interior houses many exceptionally valuable works of sacred art. The Gothic main altar was crafted by outstanding Silesian craftsmen. The cathedral also features a beautiful Baroque pulpit and baptismal font, Gothic choir stalls, Renaissance tombs of the Przecławski family, and bronze grave plates produced in the Nuremberg workshop of the Vischers.
Particular attention should be paid to the Golden Chapel. Its splendid and richly adorned interior reflects the early history of the Polish state, housing the monument and sarcophagus of Mieszko I and Bolesław I the Brave – the first rulers of Poland.
An interesting feature is the so-called Sword of Saint Peter. The original is kept in the Archdiocesan Museum, while a replica hangs on the wall of the right nave. According to legend, it is the very sword with which Saint Peter defended Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Crypts
When visiting the cathedral, you cannot miss the fascinating crypts, where remnants of three earlier churches – pre-Romanesque, Romanesque, and Gothic – can be found. Most significant, however, are the remains of the original tombs of Poland’s first two rulers: Mieszko I and Bolesław I the Brave. Part of the crypts also includes the burial vault of the Archbishops of Poznań, which is still used for its original purpose.
Viewing platform
A viewing platform has been added to one of the cathedral’s towers, offering a spectacular view over the centre of Poznań, including its oldest areas – the Cathedral Island (Ostrów Tumski) and Śródka. This is a relatively new addition, and visitors are taken to the top of the tower by a convenient lift.
