essential - krakow

Originally built in the 11^th Century, the outstanding Wawel Cathedral is considered as Poland´s most important historical monument. The impressive structure is steeped in history and is the final resting place of many notable Polish royals, together with the country´s greatest national heroes, two poets and four saints, including Poland´s patron, St. Stanislav who was murdered by King Boleslav in 1079. The martyr´s silver coffin is adorned with a powerful relief depicting the miracles he performed in his life. Built around 1670 it is regarded as one of the finest mausoleums in Eastern Europe. The Cathedral in fact is renowned for its fine collection of treasures and visitors should not miss the red-Hungarian marble sarcophagus of King Vladislav II which ranks amongst one of the best sculptures of the 14^th Century.