St.Florian’s Gate (Florian Gate) – The Grand Entrance to the Old Town

Florian Gate

Walking down Florianska Street, one of the main commercial arteries of the Old Town, you will inevitably walk through St.Florian’s Gate. This medieval structure is a small reminder of history, when walls and fortifications surrounded Kraków’s center, defending it against invasions.

The Florian Gate, has it’s name after the nearby St.Florian’s Church. It is a Gothic Tower dating back to the 1300s. Originally, it was one of multiple towers that constituted the inner defensive wall. And it was part of the main defenses at the North point of the city, and with help from a long bridge spanning the old inner moat, connecting it to the Barbican Gateway. A knowledgeable guide will happily enlighten you on the details of Kraków’s defenses.

View of Mariacki Church, seen through the Florian Gate,

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 in use for coronation events and parades. It is through this gate that famous dignitaries and diplomats entered the city. It is said that proud Kings walk through the gate after victorious battles.

The tower is 34.5 metres high, including the Baroque spire that was an addition in the late 1600s. It stands with two adjacent smaller towers. The walls connecting them together now display colorful art. You can visit the tower and the remaining defensive walls seasonally.

Art for sale on the defensive walls

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

   Sun Closed

Closed every second Monday of the month

Price: 8PLN including entrance to the Barbican

Images by Stefanie Auger-Roy for Absolute Tours