On Wednesday, June 6th, we plan to organize an excursion to Gniezno, the first capital of Poland.

The town, located ca 50 km east of Poznań, has been an important Slavonic stronghold since VIIIth century, and the first Polish archdiocese was founded there in 1000 AD. The 1000 years-old cathedral witnessed several coronations of Polish kings. The capital was moved in mid-XIth century, after a devastating raid of Bohemian prince Bretislav, to more securely located Cracow. The cathedral's XIIth century bronze door (Porta Regia) and the reliquiary of St Adalbert are among the most precious Romanesque art monuments in Poland.

The archbishop of Gniezno holds, traditionally, the title of the Primate of Poland. This used to be an extremely important position in the past: with the death or abdication of a king, the Primate took the role of an Interrex, and in particular he announced and conducted the election of a new king.

You can find more details on Wikipedia or download a booklet provided by the municipality of Gniezno.

The excursion will start immediately after lunch. If you are interested in participating, please register at the reception desk by Tuesday, 11:00 AM.