Kosciol Sw. Idziego (Church of St. Giles), Wroclaw
The Church of Saint Giles, a late Romanesque gem nestled on Ostr贸w Tumski, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. This venerable church holds the distinction of being not only the oldest fully preserved building in Wroc艂aw but also the oldest active church in the city today.
The origins of this church are shrouded in the mists of time, with construction likely occurring between 1220 and 1240, although it certainly existed prior to the pivotal year of 1241. The stone profiles adorning the church's plinth bear the unmistakable stylistic characteristics of an earlier structure, suggesting that they may be spolia reclaimed from the so-called Walterowska Cathedral.
The church boasts two portals, one in the Romanesque style, and the other adorned with Renaissance elements. This structure adheres to the distinctive architectural type of single-pillar churches that were typical of medieval Wroc艂aw. The church's vault is gracefully supported by a solitary pillar, and an intricate brick arcade connects it to the 16th-century chapter house, an exemplar of late Gothic design, thus forming the famed "Kluskowa Gate" (or "Kluszczana" in German, known as "Kl枚sseltor").
In the aftermath of World War II, significant efforts were undertaken to restore the Church of Saint Giles to its original character. Many of the Baroque-era alterations were meticulously removed, the external plaster was stripped away, and the double chancel arch was faithfully reconstructed, preserving the church's historical essence. One notable feature that endured this process of revitalization is the enduring bell tower, which still graces the landscape.
Today, the chapter building and the neighboring structure house the Archdiocesan Museum. Within its hallowed walls, visitors can explore a treasure trove of sacred art, including valuable collections and artifacts like "The Book of Henry," an Egyptian mummy from 325 BC, and stone reliefs from the 3rd century, hailing from the Damascus area in Syria.
The origins of this church are shrouded in the mists of time, with construction likely occurring between 1220 and 1240, although it certainly existed prior to the pivotal year of 1241. The stone profiles adorning the church's plinth bear the unmistakable stylistic characteristics of an earlier structure, suggesting that they may be spolia reclaimed from the so-called Walterowska Cathedral.
The church boasts two portals, one in the Romanesque style, and the other adorned with Renaissance elements. This structure adheres to the distinctive architectural type of single-pillar churches that were typical of medieval Wroc艂aw. The church's vault is gracefully supported by a solitary pillar, and an intricate brick arcade connects it to the 16th-century chapter house, an exemplar of late Gothic design, thus forming the famed "Kluskowa Gate" (or "Kluszczana" in German, known as "Kl枚sseltor").
In the aftermath of World War II, significant efforts were undertaken to restore the Church of Saint Giles to its original character. Many of the Baroque-era alterations were meticulously removed, the external plaster was stripped away, and the double chancel arch was faithfully reconstructed, preserving the church's historical essence. One notable feature that endured this process of revitalization is the enduring bell tower, which still graces the landscape.
Today, the chapter building and the neighboring structure house the Archdiocesan Museum. Within its hallowed walls, visitors can explore a treasure trove of sacred art, including valuable collections and artifacts like "The Book of Henry," an Egyptian mummy from 325 BC, and stone reliefs from the 3rd century, hailing from the Damascus area in Syria.
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Kosciol Sw. Idziego (Church of St. Giles) on Map
Sight Name: Kosciol Sw. Idziego (Church of St. Giles)
Sight Location: Wroclaw, Poland (See walking tours in Wroclaw)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Wroclaw, Poland (See walking tours in Wroclaw)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Wroclaw, Poland
Create Your Own Walk in Wroclaw
Creating your own self-guided walk in Wroclaw is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Wroclaw Introduction Walking Tour
Wroclaw, the capital of Poland鈥檚 Lower Silesia province, is a travel gem for wandering hearts. Steeped in over 1,000 years of history and a vibrant blend of Polish, German, and other cultural influences, it could easily compete for the title of the most beautiful city in Europe.
The area around Wroclaw was inhabited as early as the 9th century by Slavic tribes. The town was originally part of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
The area around Wroclaw was inhabited as early as the 9th century by Slavic tribes. The town was originally part of... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Cathedral Island Walking Tour
Cathedral Island, known as "Ostr贸w Tumski" in Polish, is a historic and enchanting district in the heart of Wroclaw. This picturesque island, nestled amid the Oder River, is a treasure trove of architectural and cultural wonders that date back centuries.
Begin your journey by crossing the iconic Tumski Bridge. It's not just a pathway but a symbol of love, as couples often attach... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.7 Km or 0.4 Miles
Begin your journey by crossing the iconic Tumski Bridge. It's not just a pathway but a symbol of love, as couples often attach... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.7 Km or 0.4 Miles