Tuba Dei, Medieval bell in Toruń Cathedral, Poland
Description
Tuba Dei is a bronze bell in Toruń Cathedral with a diameter of 2.27 meters (7.5 feet) and a height of 2 meters (6.5 feet), weighing about 7,500 kilograms (16,500 pounds). Latin inscriptions cover its surface, and the clapper alone weighs around 200 kilograms (440 pounds).
History
Local craftsman Martin Schmidt cast this bell in 1500, making it the largest of its kind in Poland at that time. About twenty years later, the even larger Zygmunt bell was created, replacing it in that position.
Culture
The bell displays reliefs of Saints John, Catherine, and Barbara on its surface, honoring those who supported the cathedral. These images shape how the object looks and tell the story of the people behind its creation.
Practical
The bell is housed in St John's Cathedral tower and is easily accessible during warmer months. Visitors should note that the staircase leading upward is narrow and steep, requiring sturdy footwear.
Did you know?
The original wooden frame from the 16th century remains in place and is still used for special occasions. Ringing the bell traditionally requires multiple people working together to move the massive bronze weight.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Toruń).
Toruń Cathedral
11 m
Esken House in Toruń
90 m
The House of Legends of Toruń
93 m
Bishops Palace in Toruń
88 m
Church museum in Toruń
72 m
Museum of the History of Toruń
87 m
Museum of the History of Toruń - District Museum
80 m
Hotel Gromada Toruń
65 m
22 Łazienna Street in Toruń
87 m
Kolumna Maryjna w Toruniu
0 m
16 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
25 m
13 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
37 m
6 Rabiańska Street in Toruń
90 m
9 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
39 m
13 Łazienna Street in Toruń
76 m
10 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
53 m
7 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
55 m
5 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
63 m
6 Kopernika Street in Toruń
62 m
6 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
78 m
15 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
37 m
18 Łazienna Street in Toruń
85 m
Zespół kamienicy
87 m
22 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
86 m
24 Łazienna Street in Toruń
92 m
11 Żeglarska Street in Toruń
37 m
11 Łazienna Street in Toruń
72 m
3 Rabiańska Street in Toruń
75 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