St. Michael the Archangel and St. Stanislaus the Bishop Basilica in Krakow

The Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel and St. Stanislaus the Bishop and Martyr, commonly known as Skałka, is a Baroque church and Pauline monastery in Kraków, situated on a hill at Skałeczna Street. Constructed between 1733 and 1751 according to designs by Antoni Müntzer and Antonio Solari, it serves as a sanctuary of St. Stanislaus, the Bishop of Kraków, and as the National Pantheon, housing the tombs of distinguished Poles such as Stanisław Wyspiański and Czesław Miłosz. The church is notable for its Baroque interior decor, with the main altar featuring a painting of the Archangel Michael by Tadeusz Kuntze. Another significant element is the altar of St. Stanislaus, which holds his relic and traces of the bishop’s blood, underscoring the church’s importance as a place of worship. Inside, there is a bust of Augustyn Kordecki, the defender of Jasna Góra, and a statue of John Paul II. The history of Skałka dates back to the Middle Ages, when it gained renown as the site of the martyrdom of St. Stanislaus, who, according to legend, was murdered by King Bolesław the Generous. The church on Skałka has hosted numerous Polish monarchs and prominent figures, and its significance grew after the canonization of Stanislaus in 1253. In 1880, the Crypt of the Distinguished was established, and in 1782, annual ceremonies honoring eminent Poles were instituted, which for many became a symbol of patriotism. The pond within the complex, known as the "Baptismal Font of Poland," is associated with ancient rituals and the legend of St. Stanislaus. Over the centuries, Skałka has undergone numerous renovations, with its current appearance resulting from extensive construction and artistic efforts since the 17th century. In the 20th century, the church gained additional prominence by hosting John Paul II and influencing Polish culture and spirituality. In 2005, Skałka was designated a Minor Basilica, highlighting its historical and spiritual significance in the context of the 750th anniversary of the canonization of St. Stanislaus. The Major Seminary of the Pauline Fathers, founded in 1653, is also part of Skałka’s tradition. Despite various challenges during and after World War II, it has maintained its role in the formation of future priests.