After several years of renovation work, the altarpiece of Veit Stoss in St. Mary’s Basilica in Kraków has been restored to its former glory. As the largest Gothic altarpiece in the world, it definitely worth a visit.?
The altarpiece of Veit Stoss is located behind the High altar of St. Mary’s Basilica and was carved between 1477 and 1489 by the German sculptor Veit Stoss who lived and worked in Krakow for over 20 years. It is about 13 m high and 11 m wide and consists of 200 fine limewood sculptures treated with color and gold foil. The central part, with huge lifelike statues of the saints, depicts the Dormition of Mary, who is gently falling asleep surrounded by all 12 of the Apostles. Looking upwards one sees the Ascension of Our Lady and Lord. And at the very top, there is Madonna’s Heavenly Coronation by the Trinity. The side panels show the six scenes of the Joys of Mary. At the lower part of the altarpiece, there is the genealogical tree of Mary from the house of David.
The Veit Stoss altarpiece is one of the most outstanding works of late Gothic sculpting art in Europe as well as one of the most important pieces of art in Poland. Thanks to years of hard work by the Interacademic Institute of Conservation and Restoration of Art, the restoration work is coming to a close, and visitors will be able to admire the refurbished Wit Stwosz, which is now closer to the colors of the construction from the late 15th century.
In addition to the altarpiece owned by St. Mary’s Basilica, It features magnificent stained-glass windows dating from the late 14th century and the blue star vaulting with exquisite interiors, which captivate all who visit here. The church is open to visitors every day when no Mass is being conducted. Don’t miss this amazing place while you visit the Main Market Square in Kraków.
There are plenty of fantastic attractions in Krakow you can discover by joining our 3days Krakow city break.?
? https://www.visitpoland.com/tours/cracow-city-break?
Photo krakow4u.pl
