St. Anne’s Church stands on Krakowskie Przedmieście, just south of Warsaw’s Castle Square and the Old Town. Its restrained Neoclassical façade gives little hint of the richly decorated Baroque interior, where gilded altars, painted vaults and elaborate stucco work reward a closer look.
Founded in 1454 by Duchess Anna of Mazovia, the church has been altered over centuries while retaining traces of its older Gothic structure. It survived the Second World War with much of its fabric intact and remains an active place of worship as well as a landmark on Warsaw’s Royal Route.
Allow time to step inside rather than admiring only the façade. For a view over Castle Square and the Old Town, climb the adjacent bell tower; admission and opening hours are separate from those of the church. Check service times before visiting, and keep voices low if worship is in progress.