Tarnów Cathedral Basilica of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Cathedral Basilica of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Tarnów, known for its rich history and architecture, has its roots in the 14th century, when the original parish church, founded by Spycimir Leliwita, was built in 1330. As early as the 15th century, thanks to the efforts of Bishop Piotr Wysz, the church was elevated to the status of a collegiate church, which involved its expansion and the enrichment of its interior with numerous chapels, such as the Chapel of the Dispersion of the Apostles and the Chapel of St. Anne, featuring characteristic star vaults and Renaissance funerary monuments. Inside the cathedral, there are valuable works of art, such as the tomb of Jan Tarnowski, crafted by Jan Maria Padovano, and richly carved canonical stalls from the late 15th century. The cathedral was the site of significant events, such as the consecration of the first bishop of Halych, Jakub Strepa, in 1392. Fires that repeatedly devastated the city also affected the church, but each reconstruction contributed to its development and enrichment with new elements, such as Baroque and Renaissance tombs. In the 19th century, the cathedral became the seat of the Diocese of Tarnów, and the restoration work commissioned in 1890 transformed the interior in the Neo-Gothic style. In 1972, Pope Paul VI granted the cathedral the title of a minor basilica. Interestingly, in 1906, a new organ was installed, and in the following years, the instrument was systematically modernized. Contemporary restoration work, especially that carried out in the 21st century, highlights the ongoing care for this unique cultural heritage, making the cathedral not only an important religious site but also a tourist attraction that combines history, art, and architecture.