St Mary Magdalene Square in Kraków

St Mary Magdalene Square lies in the Old Town, between Grodzka and Kanonicza streets, in the centre of the former Okół. It covers 997 square metres. In 1952-1990 its patron was Veit Stoss.

A church that is no longer there

The name comes from the Church of St Mary Magdalene, which formerly stood here. It was probably built in the 13th century, rebuilt after a fire in the 15th century, given a Baroque look in the 17th century, and demolished in 1811. Its outline is marked on the paving of the square.

Monument and fountain

In the middle stands the monument to Piotr Skarga, carved by Czesław Dźwigaj and unveiled in 2001. Its placing aroused controversy and protests. There is also a small stone fountain from 1996, designed by Józef Białasik and Michał Szymański. In summer roller skaters and skateboarders use the square.

The neighbourhood

On the north side the Collegium Iuridicum with the Institute of Art History of the Jagiellonian University adjoins the square, and across Grodzka Street stand two churches, including the Church of Saints Peter and Paul. It is close from here to Wawel Hill.

Practical information

• Location: between Grodzka and Kanonicza streets.
• An open urban space, with no tickets.