Zygmunt Bell, Wawel Hill, Royal Cathedral

This massive bell was funded by King Zygmunt the Elder in 1520 and named after him. It weighs over one ton and can be heard within 50 kilometers. Eight people are needed to put it in motion. The bell tower, which was once part of the fortress surrounding the Royal Castle, is now part of the Royal Cathedral and can be accessed from there.

Zygmunt Bell was cast by Hans Beham known as Johann Behem from metal melted from the armor of soldiers defeated by Polish forces. The bell is rung only on the most important occasions, such as the election of a new pope, the outbreak of war, or the conclusion of war. As of 2006, the most recent ringing was on the arrival of Pope Benedict XVI in Krakow (May 2006).

Photo 753, May 2007