Okno Papieskie, Historic window at Bishop's Palace in Stare Miasto, Kraków, Poland
The Papal Window occupies the first floor of the Bishop's Palace and features a mosaic made of Venetian glass depicting Pope John Paul II, completed in 2018. It faces onto the street and functions as a public memorial space.
Cardinal Karol Wojtyła lived in the Bishop's Palace from 1964 to 1978 before becoming Pope John Paul II and later addressing crowds from this window during papal visits. A mosaic portrait was added to the window in 2018 following his death.
People leave white and yellow flowers and light candles at this window to remember Pope John Paul II. The space shows how deeply this location touches visitors who come to pay their respects.
The window is located on Franciszkańska Street in the old town and remains accessible for viewing and photography at any time from the street. Wheelchair users can access the area, and paid parking is available nearby.
Three different popes have addressed crowds from this window: not only John Paul II, but also Benedict XVI in 2006 and Francis in 2016. This makes it a rare location where multiple church leaders performed the same gesture.
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