Friday, May 11, 2012

Chapel of St Kinga

Continuing our expedition in the Wieliczka Salt Mine, you can see salt as you venture through the tunnels and escavated paths the tour takes you through. Just as a note, the tour takes about two hours and you'll be with a large group of people typically so don't get trapped underground if you're not really into salt mines!



Some gnomes put up by miners - I believe they were used as good luck charms deep down underground.


The Holy Cross chapel is located in one of the smaller chambers underground figure of Christ and some salt monk figurines in front.




The cavernous Chapel of St Kinga was most definitely worth the trip down Wieliczka IMHO. Giant, salt chandeliers hung over head while carvings adorn the sides of this underground temple with over 100 years in history.


A large number of carvings adorn the walls of this chamber as they depict various scenes from the life of Christ.



Probably one of the most recognizable facades here is the depiction of the Last Supper.


A better view of a chandelier completely made of salt crystals:


A look at the main altar; To some extent, I wonder if Peter Jackson got some of his inspiration for the Mines of Moria from here!


Below is a portrayal of the crucifixion of Christ:


On the left is what appears to be Joseph and Mary with the Christ child and on the left is Madonna and the child.


One last parting shot of the splendid Chapel of St Kinga before heading to some of the underground lakes inside the mine.


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