Legend of the White Eagle – Gniezno
Fact of the Polish figure „Polish national myths – Gniezno Cathedral”
Part of the „The story of the beginning” topic
The myth of Gniezno is inextricably connected with the legend of Lech, Czech and Rus. The town was founded by Lech at the place where he saw the white eagle, and hence its name. It comes from the word “nest” (in Polish: gniazdo). Over time, Gniezno was not only the seat of the Piast dynasty, but also the first capital of Poland. The importance of Gniezno is also highlighted by the fact that the first Polish martyr was buried there. Therefore, the Gniezno Summit had a chance to take place. In 1000 Emperor Otto III went on a pilgrimage to the grave of saint Adalbert. As a result of the visit, Gniezno was promoted to the rank of archbishopric.
