St. Mary Magdalene Church is an imposing red-brick building dating back to the early 14th century. Its main attraction is a copy of its original portal, considered to be an excellent example of late 12th-century Romanesque sculpture. Climb to the top of the church's tower for dramatic views over the city. If you’re feeling brave, walk across the stomach-churning bridge that connects its two towers.
The church was constructed between the early 14th and mid-15th centuries on the site of an earlier 13th-century church. It was taken over by Protestants during the Reformation and was eventually returned to the Catholic Church after World War II. Inside the church, find the 16th-century Renaissance pulpit, designed by artist Friedrich Gross, and the fine Gothic stone tabernacle. Look for tombstones dating from various periods throughout the church’s history.
Don’t miss the Romanesque portal found on the church’s south wall. Originally part of the Benedictine Abbey in Ołbin, the portal was relocated to this church when the abbey was demolished in 1546. Regarded as one of the most beautiful examples of Romanesque architecture in Poland, the portal depicts scenes from the life of Mary and Jesus. See the original portal on display in Wrocław’s National Museum.
Ascend to the top of one of the towers to see gorgeous vistas over Wroclaw’s Old Town. The two towers were once decorated with needle-shaped cupolas, which were never replaced after being destroyed in World War II.
Walk across the 148-foot (45-metre) high bridge, known as the Witches’ Bridge or Penitents’ Bridge, that connects the church’s two towers. According to local legend, the shadows visible on the bridge are the souls of young women who shunned the responsibilities of motherhood and house duties. It’s said that these women sweep the bridge at night as punishment for seducing men without the intention of marrying them.
St. Mary Magdalene Church is located between Szewska and Laciarska streets, east of Market Square. The tower is open from April to October and there is an admission fee. Opening hours vary by day, so it’s best to check in advance. Keep in mind that visiting during mass is discouraged.
