The Royal Sigismund Bell

The Royal Sigismund Bell

Commissioned by King Sigismund I the Old, this bronze giant hangs in the tower of Wawel Cathedral. The Royal Sigismund Bell, known as the Zygmunt Bell, is a historic bronze bell located in the Sigismund Tower of Wawel Cathedral in Kraków, Poland. Cast in 1520 by Nuremberg founder Hans Behem, it weighs approximately 9,650 kilograms and has a diameter of about 2.5 meters. The bell was commissioned by King Sigismund I the Old and was first rung on July 13, 1521.

Throughout its history, the Zygmunt Bell has been used to mark significant events in Polish history, including royal coronations, national holidays, and solemn occasions. It is considered a national symbol and is renowned for its sonorous sound.

Visitors to Wawel Cathedral can access the Sigismund Tower to view the bell. The tower is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with extended hours on Sundays from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Admission fees are 22 PLN for adults and 15 PLN for concessions. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office across from the cathedral’s main entrance. Please note that there are 144 steps to the top of the tower, and no elevator is available.