Łomża Cathedral
Podlaskie
The Cathedral of Saints Michael the Archangel and John the Baptist in Łomża is a historic late Gothic church dating back to the early 16th century. Founded before 1504 by Duke Konrad III the Red and further patronized by Duchess Anna of Mazovia and her sons, the church evolved from a three-aisled basilica into a pseudo-basilica by 1526. It is notable for its artistic heritage, including the Modliszowski family tomb sculpted in 1589 by the Italian artist Santi Gucci. The cathedral houses rare architectural features such as star and net vaults in the main nave and crystalline vaults in the side aisles, exemplifying the Mazovian Gothic style. Over the centuries, it underwent many renovations, including Baroque modifications in the late 17th century and Neo-Gothic additions in the late 19th century. The church became the seat of the Diocese of Łomża in 1925 and was visited by Pope John Paul II in 1991. Today, it also serves as a Marian sanctuary with the revered image of Our Lady of Beautiful Love, attracting pilgrims and visitors alike.
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Astuce: Visitors should consider attending during religious celebrations or Marian pilgrimages to experience the cathedral's spiritual atmosphere. The best time to visit is during spring and early autumn when weather is pleasant. Booking guided tours in advance is advisable to fully appreciate the art and history. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. Check the official website or contact the parish office for current schedules and events.
Faits intéressants
- •The Modliszowski family tomb inside the cathedral was crafted in 1589 by the renowned Italian sculptor Santi Gucci.
- •The cathedral features a rare combination of star, net, and crystalline vaults, characteristic of Mazovian Gothic architecture.
- •Pope John Paul II delivered a speech at the cathedral during his 1991 visit to Łomża.
- •The cathedral houses a miraculous image of Our Lady of Beautiful Love, making it an important Marian pilgrimage site.
- •Despite partial damage in World War II, the cathedral was saved from total destruction through the efforts of Bishop Stanisław K. Łukomski.
Histoire
The cathedral's origins trace back to before 1504, initiated by Duke Konrad III the Red and continued by Mazovian nobility.
Initially built as a three-aisled basilica, it was transformed into a pseudo-basilica by 1526.
The southern chapel was converted into a family mausoleum in the late 16th century.
The church suffered fire damage in 1621 and was renovated under Giuseppe Simone Belotti in the early 1690s, who introduced Baroque elements.
Further restorations occurred in the 18th and 19th centuries, including Neo-Gothic additions.
The building was elevated to cathedral status in 1925 with the creation of the Diocese of Łomża.
It sustained damage during World War II but was restored post-war.
In the 1950s, it underwent regothicization to restore its medieval character.
Guide du lieu
Modliszowski Tomb1589
A Renaissance tomb built in 1589 by Italian sculptor Santi Gucci, serving as a mausoleum for the Modliszowski family. It is a significant artistic and historical monument within the cathedral.
Bell Tower
The cathedral's bell tower is a prominent Gothic architectural feature, housing bells that have historically called the faithful to worship.
Main Nave Vaulting16th century
The main nave is covered with star and net vaults, while the side aisles feature crystalline vaults, a rare architectural element in Mazovia.
Chapel of St. Casimir1887
Originally a porch at the base of the bell tower, transformed into a chapel in 1887, funded by Telesfor Starzeński.
Contact
Téléphone: 86 216 76 36