Warmińska Kapituła Katedralna. Zarys dziejów
The Warmia Cathedral Chapter. Outline of history

Summary/Abstract: The Warmia Cathedral Chapter is one of the oldest in Poland. It was established in June 1260 in Braniewo but after 18 years the headquarters was moved to Frombork. As a remuneration, it received three bailiffs: Frombork, Pieniężno and Olsztyn, from which it derived income. Initially, it included 16 canons. Representatives of all states could become members but were required to complete their three-year university studies. After the inclusion of Warmia in 1772 to Prussia it was deprived of secular power and income from land, and in this place a state subsidy was granted. In 1821 the number of members was reduced to 10 and 4 honorable canons were established. Nicolaus Copernicus was among the most famous members of this community. The most difficult times were experienced by the Chapter during Nazism and at the end of World War II, when 4 canons lost their lives. Soon after, its activity was suspended. It was not until 1951 that the Polish primate completed its composition and in 1959 the number of real canons from 8 to 12 and honorable from 4 to 12 was increased. The Warmia Cathedral Chapter had a number of privileges and one of the most important was the right to choose a bishop. It also assisted in administration of the diocese, but its primary task was to celebrate the liturgy in the cathedral church.

• Details
• Contents