St. Leonard's Crypt, Romanesque crypt in Wawel Cathedral, Kraków, Poland
Description
St. Leonard's Crypt lies beneath Wawel Cathedral and is a Romanesque underground structure featuring eight supporting columns arranged in symmetrical patterns throughout the space. These columns divide the area into several burial chambers with thick stone walls.
History
The crypt originated around 1200 and began its role as a royal burial ground when Bishop Maurus was interred there in 1118. Over the centuries, it became the primary resting place for Polish monarchs and prominent national figures.
Culture
The crypt holds the remains of Polish kings, military leaders, and national figures who shaped the country's story. Walking through these chambers, you feel the weight of Polish history in every corner.
Practical
Access to the crypt is through the main entrance of Wawel Cathedral, where you can explore the underground rooms at your own pace. Wear comfortable shoes, as the stairs are steep and the floors are uneven in places.
Did you know?
A future pope celebrated his first Mass at this location in 1946, shortly after his ordination as a priest. This event connected the sacred space to one of the church's most influential figures of the 20th century.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Kraków).
Sigismund Bell
23 m
Wawel Cathedral
28 m
Sigismund's Chapel
43 m
National Bards crypt of the Wawel
4 m
Tadeusz Kościuszko Monument
45 m
Zygmunt's Tower
4 mWawel Castle Gate
45 m
Wawel Clock Tower
39 m
John Albert's Chapel
37 m
Maria Chapel
29 m
Wawel Coat of Arms Gate
38 m
Nagrobek Władysława III Warneńczyka na Wawelu
29 m
Wawel John III Tower
33 m
Tomicki Chapel
34 m
Batory's Courtyard
23 m
Zebrzydowski Chapel
6 m
Czartoryski Chapel
40 m
Lipski Chapel
13 m
Kerk bij de Władysław IV Bastion
16 m
Maciejowski Chapel
21 m
Gamrat Chapel
22 m
Zadzik Chapel
36 m
Wladislaus IV Bastion
45 m
Cathédrale du Wawel
24 m
Hincza Chapel
28 m
Załuski Chapel
37 m
Konarski Chapel
37 m
Gereonskirche
40 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes