St.Florian’s Gate (Florian Gate) – the grand entrance to the old town
Walking down Florianska Street, one of the main commercial arteries of the Old Town, you will inevitably walk through St.Florian’s Gate. The medieval structure is a small reminder of history, when walls and fortifications surrounded Kraków’s center, defending it against invasions.
The Florian Gate, named after the nearby St.Florian’s Church, is a Gothic Tower dating back to the 1300s. Originally, it was one of multiple towers that constituted the inner defensive wall. It comprised part of the main defenses at the North point of the city, and with help from a long bridge spanning the old inner moat, was connected to the Barbican Gateway. A knowledgeable guide will happily enlighten you on the details of Kraków’s defenses.
Acting as main entryway to the city, the Gate was the starting point of the Royal Way leading down Florianska Street, through the Main Square, and towards Wawel Castle. The route was used for coronation events and parades. It is through this gate that famous dignitaries and diplomats entered the city. It is also said that the Kings would walk proudly through the gate after victorious battles.
The tower is 34.5 metres high, including the Baroque spire that was added in the late 1600s. It was preserved with two adjacent smaller towers. The walls connecting them together are now used to display colorful art. The tower and the remaining defensive walls can be visited seasonally.
Florian Gate Info Box
Address: Pijarska Street, 30-547 Kraków
Map Ref: 50.065067, 19.941379
Seasonal Museum open from April to October
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 10:30am – 6:00pm
Closed every second Monday of the month
Price: 8PLN including entrance to the Barbican
Images by Stefanie Auger-Roy for Absolute Tours