St. James the Elder Church, Olsztyn, Poland

The cathedral church of St. James the Elder is situated within the old quarter next to the city walls and in the past it could fulfil a defensive function. It was built in stages from 1380 until 1445 and finally completed in its present shape during the early 17th c. The building was erected on the rectangular plan of ceramic bricks, with nave and two aisles, hall type, without separate presbytery. Late Gothic vaulting is late 16th c. During the same time (1562-1596) the tower was added. Piotr Olszewski designed chapels flanking the tower in 1721.

The interior décor is mainly new gothic. The older elements are: in the left aisle a late Gothic triptych from early 16th c., in the right aisle the painted triptych – “Crucifixion” of 1553 in new-gothic framing. The main altar and pulpits in new-gothic style. In the baptistery chapel a Baroque 18th c. painting of the Virgin of the Rosary surrounded by St, Catherine of Siena and St. Dominique. Initially the church was a parish church of St. James the Elder, patron of the town later raised to the distinction of a joint cathedral.

References:

European Route of Brick Gothic

Religious sites in Poland

User Reviews

I G (2 years ago)
The cathedral is very quiet and magical when it starts playing. 10/10

Soji Thomas Kannalil (2 years ago)
A cathedral which evokes us to be in the presence of God. A place of prayer where we can put down all over worries and tensions.

Sophie The Wanderer (3 years ago)
Incredible, beautiful church. Impressive Gothic design that is said to be one of the best highlights of this architecture in Poland. I was very glad to be able to visit and was in love with the stained glass windows. It was a lovely place to get to stop, have peace and pray ?

busiu (3 years ago)
It's a big church. Worth a look though.

Eliza Kulesza (5 years ago)
Huge and beautiful. I loved it

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