St. James' Church in Toruń

The Church of the Holy Apostles James and Philip in Toruń, located at the eastern corner of the New Town Market Square, is a significant example of brick architecture in the Baltic Sea basin. Its history dates back to 1309, when construction of the chancel began. In the 14th century, the church was taken over by Cistercian nuns and later by Benedictine nuns. From 1557 to 1667, it was in the hands of the Evangelical community, after which it was returned to the Benedictine nuns. Due to its wealth of architectural details, the spectacular spatial arrangement of its interior, and valuable artifacts such as 14th-century wall paintings, a mystical crucifix, and a statue of the Virgin Mary, the church plays an important role in local culture. Its distinctive structure features a rare three-nave basilica layout with galleries, uncommon in the Chełmno Land region. The chancel is richly decorated with architectural ornaments, including a ceramic foundation inscription. The church was enhanced with side chapels, and after a fire in 1455, its tower was rebuilt. The interior houses a collection of historical artifacts, some of which were transferred from the no-longer-existing Dominican church. Both Gothic and Baroque works have been preserved here, including 18th-century altars and an organ prospectus from 1611. In 1724, significant historical events known as the Toruń Tumult took place near the church, and in 2006, the Polish Way of St. James leading to the church was established. The church was elevated to the status of a sanctuary in 2021. An interesting fact is that one of the first organs in Pomerania is said to have been created by the Franciscan friar Paweł Wenchen. The fate of the medieval bells, which were stolen by the Swedes during the Northern War, is also unique. Mass is celebrated in the Tridentine rite at the church, underscoring its importance to the local community.