Tyniec Abbey

Perched in an awesome setting on a limestone crag above the River Vistula, Tyniec is the oldest abbey still working in Poland and has a dramatic backstory that mirrors the history of the country. Founded by Benedictine monks in 1004, the abbey has survived the capital moving to Warsaw from Kraków; a fire in the 12th century; siege in 1772; being abandoned on occasions under Partition (1795-1918); and somehow avoiding closure under the Nazi occupation during World War II as well as Soviet repression after the war. 
With various additions – including a much-needed, solid defensive wall – down the centuries and mass rebuilding after the end of WWII, the Baroque-style complex today consists of cloisters and courtyards surrounded by the abbey, the twin-spired church of Saints Peter and Paul, a museum highlighting its turbulent history, a souvenir shop selling produce made by the monks – including beer and wine – and a simple restaurant. Visitors can only see the abbey by guided tour, but it’s also possible to join the Benedictines for days of contemplation, attending prayer services and eating with the monks.

Practical Info

The abbey is at Benedyktyńska 37, Tyniec, and is open daily between 10am and 6pm. Admission 6 PLN adults; with access to museum 10 PLN, concessions 8 PLN. Call ahead for times of English-speaking tours. Tyniec Abbey is 12 km (7.5 miles) southwest of Kraków city center and is easily accessible by car or bus no. 112 from Most Grunwaldzki. A visit to the abbey also makes a pleasant 45-minute cycle ride along the banks of the Vistula while walkers can make it in around two hours. Between March and October, tour boats leave from ulica Flisacka in Kraków and take 1.5 hours to reach the abbey.