Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Opole

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Opole, located at 2 Katedralna Street, is a Roman Catholic parish church and the cathedral of the Diocese of Opole. Listed as a historical monument, it features a Gothic style with neo-Gothic towers reaching a height of 73 meters, making it the tallest building in the city. The structure, whose history dates back to at least 1005, has undergone numerous reconstructions—its current form was established in the 15th century. The church houses the valuable painting of Our Lady of Opole, brought here from Piekary Śląskie in 1702. Historical records mentioning the church go back to 1223, and its development was supported by various foundations and donations. Reconstructions following fires in the 15th and 17th centuries, as well as modernizations in the 19th and 20th centuries, have contributed to the present appearance of the temple. The cathedral has witnessed many important religious and social events, including the establishment of the diocese and visits by Church representatives such as Cardinal Karol Wojtyła. The interior of the cathedral is characterized by three naves and rich furnishings, including Baroque and neo-Gothic altars, as well as valuable epitaphs. Interestingly, during the renovation of the towers between 2008 and 2009, numerous historical objects were discovered and later placed back inside the spheres atop the spires. The cathedral hosts important religious events, and in 1983, Pope John Paul II crowned the painting of Our Lady of Opole. As part of Opole's cultural heritage, the cathedral is a significant site for both the local community and tourists.