Świdnica Cathedral is an old Gothic church, one of the main monuments of Świdnica. It is the largest church in Lower Silesia. The church's stained glass window is also nhe largest in the area, while the tower measures 103 meters and is the third largest (after Licheń and Czestochowa) in Poland. Świdnica Cathedral is a Gothic building with the second-highest tower in Lower Silesia and the third-highest in Poland. The cornerstone for the temple was most likely laid by Świdnica's Duke Bolko II Mały in 1330. In 1353 the chancel was completed, and in 1385 the nave. At the same time, chapels founded by guilds and wealthy townsmen were built. In the 15th century, a south tower was added (there were plans for a second tower, but they were not realized). Construction of the cathedral was completed in 1525. The beautiful Baroque interior dates from the late 17th and early 18th centuries, but elements of the original Gothic design can also be seen here. The most notable accents are the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary altarpiece in the form of a pentaptych from the late 15th century, the choir of the Confraternity of Mary (Choir of Burgesses) and the Baroque high altarpiece by Jan Riedl.
02.09.2013
