The history of this fortified town goes back to the second half of the 13th
century, when it became a Warmian chapter (diocesan capital). The Gothic
cathedral, which was erected in 1342–88, has an unusual form, with no towers
on its west end, giving it the appearance of a Cistercian monastery, and an
eight-bay nave that allowed each member of the chapter to have a separate
altar. There are also several canons’ stalls in the chancel. The cathedral
is surrounded by defensive walls set with towers and pierced by a large main
gate in its south side. In the cathedral grounds are a bishop’s palace and
chapterhouse.