Torun Attractions : Church of the Virgin Mary

CHURCH OF THE VIRGIN MARY

Address: ul. Panny Marii 2, 87-100

Web: http://www.parafia-wnmp.pl/

Phone: +48 56 622 26 03

This church was constructed for the Franciscan monks in the late thirteenth century and there was a respectful relationship between the monks and the Teutonic Knights. After the Reformation the church was used by Catholics and Lutherans for some decades, but the Lutherans later took over the former monastery, something which led to some disagreement during the seventeenth century. With the Tumult of Thorn in 1724, the Lutherans lost the church by Royal Order and it was given to the Cistercians. In the nineteenth century the monastery part of the complex was demolished, with work needed to the main church due to fears of it collapsing.

There is a substantial renovation project taking place at the moment, which is restoring some of the internal and external structures and features of the church. The inside of the church can feel a little cold and dank in the winter months, but the richness of the decoration and the depth of history make a visit recommended. There are fourteenth century wall paintings and the pulpit dates to the seventeenth century.

There is no admission charge, although donations are appreciated. The church opening times vary, especially whilst the restoration work is taking place, but it’s normally open from around 11.00 until 18.00, and often longer.