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Krakow is deservedly considered the most beautiful Polish city. Its stately architecture is impressive and the atmosphere is mesmerizing.
It is better to start exploring the city and acquaintance with its main attractions with Barbican, which once served as a reliable means of protection from intruders and the only entrance to the city.
From here you can walk along Royal Route, which will reveal to you the main historical and cultural sights of the city and will allow you to enjoy its greatness.
The heart of the city can be safely called Market square founded in the 13th century. But this is not only one of the oldest, but also one of the largest European squares. Most of the buildings were built in the 14-15th centuries and were rebuilt in the 17-18th. Thus, we can say that most of them bear a quite distinct imprint of bygone eras.
Here you need to turn your attention to Town Hall Tower, St. Wojciech Church, Adam Mickiewicz Monument and Zbaraski Palace... And without a doubt, the most visited place in this square is St. Mary's Costel... The attention of all tourists is immediately attracted by the soaring tower of the church, from which every hour a gilded pipe protrudes, emitting wonderful sounds. True, the trumpeter never plays out his melody to the end. This is due to the legend, according to which, back in the 14th century, a trumpet player, who was at his post, noticed an approaching enemy and played an alarming melody. But he did not have time to finish the game, as he was killed by an enemy arrow. At the cost of his life, he managed to warn the townspeople of the impending danger. In memory of this event, trumpeters still do not finish playing their melody to the end, reminding us of a beautiful legend. 
At the other end of the square is a 70-meter high tower, left over from the town hall that was once located here, which was burned down in the 17th century by lightning. It is noteworthy that the elements left their mark on the tower - from a strong blow, it tilted. And despite the fact that it was fortified on one side, you can notice its slight slope. 
A 100-meter building occupies a place of honor in the center of the square. shopping malls(Sukiennice), built in the 14th century and completed with state rooms and galleries in the 16th - 18th centuries. Nowadays, the first floor of the gallery is occupied by small shops where you can buy all kinds of souvenirs. On the second floor there is a museum displaying Polish painting and sculpture. 
Walking along the streets of Krakow, it is impossible to pass by Jagiellonian University- the oldest and most authoritative institution of higher education in all of Europe. Now you can visit the museum, the expositions of which are devoted to the history of the university, or simply wander around the courtyard of this powerful and respectable institution.
One of the most beautiful cathedrals in Krakow is the Jesuit church, built in the Baroque style in the late 16th - early 17th as a gift from the Polish king. The figures of 12 apostles are located in front of the temple, and the facade of the cathedral simply amazes with its grace and luxury. 
It is impossible to get to know Krakow without visiting its royal palace - Wawel. After all, this is not just a palace - it is a real architectural ensemble that has outlived many owners, each of whom left their own, unique mark here. During the tour, you will surely be shown Sigmund Chapel, in which there is a huge bell, which, according to legend, can be seen only once, without forgetting to make a wish.
There is also a magnificent Cathedral of Saints Stanislav and Wenceslas, at the entrance to which there are mammoth bones, which bring good luck and happiness to the city. This temple houses the tomb of Polish kings, as well as the famous Altar of the Fatherland, to which all monarchs at different times brought their war trophies.
In the Wawel Palace, you can not only admire the evidence of the historical past of Krakow, but also just walk, enjoying the beautiful view or sit on a bench on the platform, which offers an unrivaled view of the Vistula and the city itself. 
There is a picturesque park ring around the Old Town - Planty, where you can feel the unforgettable atmosphere of peace and romance.
If you have time, you can visit Kazimierz- a Jewish city that was once a suburb of Krakow. It was here that the world famous film "Schindler's List" was filmed. There are also two amazing cathedrals in Kazimierz: Church of St. Catharine and Church of the Body of the Lord, which contains the famous painting "The Adoration of the Magi" by Tomasso Dolabella, the former court painter of the Polish king Sigmund III.
Krakow boasts many interesting museums, among which one can distinguish Krakow National Museum, the archaeological museum, the Czartoryski art museum and the photography museum.
In general, I would like to note that Krakow is essentially a real open-air museum, where each building, especially when it comes to the Old Town, has its own unique and fascinating centuries-old history. This is just a unique, masterpiece place that is definitely worth a visit!
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The beauty of Warsaw was not always the capital of Poland, for more than 300 years (XIV-XVII centuries), the capital was rightfully Krakow, in which the Royal Route is still the main attraction. From the 10th century until the 16th century, all Polish kings traveled along this road on their way to their Royal Castle on Wawel.
At the very beginning of this road is the Matejki Square, famous for the fact that the Church of St. Florian, built in the XIV century. Be sure to listen to the legend from local residents about why the construction of the temple began in this place. By the way, in 1945-1951 here, in the church, the late Pope John Paul II served as a vicar.
To imagine a medieval city, the watchtower Barbican, which stands in front of the fortress walls, erected in 1498-1499, will help you with this. The tower is located at ul. Basztowa, Planty. Take a walk along the defensive walls and the city arsenal (ul. Pijarska).
On St. Mary's Square 5 (Pl. Mariacki 5) is the famous Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. He is famous for his, perhaps, the largest Gothic altar in Western Europe. The altar really impresses not only with its size, but also with its very rich decoration and framing.
No less beautiful is the Jesuit church, with statues of the twelve apostles, located at st. Grodskaya 64
(ul. Grodzka 64).
All of the above sights are just a small fraction of all that is valuable on this tract.
Do not forget to also visit the Czartorissky Museum - St. Yana (Sw.Jana). The most famous and richest family of the Czartoryski family lived in the house where the museum is now located. Here, besides other exhibits on display, there are paintings by Leonardo da Vinci "Lady with an Ermine" and Rembrandt "Landscape with a Merciful Samaritan".
The next exhibit along the way, but not in importance, is the Wawel Castle, which includes the royal palace and the cathedral. In the Cathedral of Saints Stanislav and Wenceslas, one of the towers houses the country's largest bell Sigismund.
After exploring the historical monuments of the city, you can also visit the Botanical Garden (Botaniczna) or the zoo located at Tadeusza Kostuszki Street.
Fans of more active recreation will find the largest water park in Poland, the pride of which is the longest slide in Europe, the descent time from which is almost 3 minutes. The address of this entertainment center is ul. Dobrego Pasterza 126.
Getting to Krakow is very easy, because it is a large city with its own airport (planes fly even to New York), located in the immediate vicinity (11 km.) And the railway station, from which trains leave for almost all major European cities, such as western and eastern.
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All the sights of Krakow are associated with architecture and culture, so you need to be prepared for long walks around the city.
The first thing you should definitely visit in this city is the Main Market Square (Main Market Square). There are old shopping arcades on it, which were once a museum, but have now returned to their original function - Cloth Hall, several churches, a monument to the lost head and dwelling houses of stunning beauty.
From the Market Square, walk down the street, where all other sights are concentrated: monuments, buildings and churches, of which there are a great many in Krakow, since the city is Catholic and devout. So you can walk to the Wawel Castle, which is located on the banks of the Vistula. Below you can see a monument to the dragon Smog, spewing flame, and above the castle itself, in which, as usual, a church, a courtyard, a monument on which the palace complex can be seen in miniature, several towers, the Smoga cave and a gallery in which you can see Leonardo da Vinci's painting "Lady with an Ermine".
In addition, the quarters on the other side of the Old Town are also of interest: Dodguzhe, where there is a mound of Krakus, and Nova Huta, a kind of proletarian part of the city.
There is also a Jewish quarter in Krakow - Kazimierz. There are concentrated synagogues and Jewish centers, where you can get acquainted with the history of the Jews in Krakow and see items of Jewish life.
The main museum in Krakow is the National Museum located near the Krakow Stadium. As a rule, it houses 4-5 exhibitions at once: three permanent ones related to the history of Poland and Krakow, and several imported ones (this can be anything from photographs to modern installations). The museum is open one day a week for free, and on Monday it is a day off.
In addition, in Krakow there are biographical museums of Polish artists, museums of history, archeology, geology, ethnography and even Japanese art, usually they also provide the opportunity to view the exhibition once a week for free.
If you are traveling to Krakow with children, then the Krakow Zoo must be included in the compulsory program. It is located in the forest, outside the city, but it is quite possible to get there by bus from the city center. The zoo is small, but very good, it will take no more than three hours to visit, the cost of tickets is 250 rubles, for children and students - cheaper.
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It is better to start exploring Krakow from the Main Market Square. Here you can find holiness (the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Church of St. Wojciech), and power (the Town Hall Tower), and national cuisine. Of more than 30 cafes and restaurants, Europejska is worth a visit: the interior here is in the style of secession, early breakfasts, a cafe from the venerable Kelleran factory. One of the best cheesecakes in Galicia is prepared here.
From morning to evening, something is happening in the Main Market. In between church processions, processions, performances by theater and circus troupes, concerts of rock stars, street guitarists and folk orchestras dancing in Krakow, it is customary to chat with vendors of fairgrounds, feast on salted pretzels, and feed pigeons with grain bought right there.
The Cloth Hall, an imposing building in the center of the square, has been the center of Krakow's trade for several centuries in a row. True, now the assortment of cloth is a rarity, mainly souvenirs that are more familiar to any tourist are offered here. The purchase and sale takes place in Sukiennice in a solemn historical setting: on the stone vaults, above the trade pavilions, the old coats of arms of Polish cities are placed.
The best art collection in Krakow is the Museum of the Princes Czartoryski, where the famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci "The Lady with the Ermine" is exhibited. But this exposition is in no way inferior to the funds of the Gallery of Polish Art of the 19th century, the halls of which are located on the second floor of the Cloth Hall.
At the end of the 18th century, Galicia, the capital of which the Poles consider Krakow, fell under the rule of the Habsburgs. The Austro-Hungarian traditions are preserved to this day by the Hawelka restaurant on the Main Market Square. It traces its history back to Antoni Havelka's grocery store, which was converted into a pub in 1913. Now everything is like under the sovereign Franz Joseph.
A long-standing Polish tradition is to build earthen hills in memory of great patriots and great events. There are four such mounds in the vicinity of Krakow, and the highest one was created in honor of Tadeusz Kosciuszko, general, leader of uprisings, participant in revolutions and liberation wars in the USA, France and Poland. The height of the mound is 35 meters. It was poured in the 1820s after the death of the hero in exile.
From 1320 and for four centuries, Polish monarchs were crowned on Wawel Hill. The most glorious of them, as well as heroes of modern times (from Chopin to Pilsudski), are buried in the crypts of the Cathedral of Saints Wenceslas and Stanislaus. The Wawel Castle was erected and rebuilt for several centuries, and now its halls and corridors display rich collections of paintings and tapestries, church relics and state decorations, jewelry and weapons, palace utensils and others. The cathedral is also proud of the relics of St. Stanislav, whose silver sarcophagus is decorated with scenes from the life of the preacher. The 13-ton bell Sigismund has been ringing from the Sigismund Tower for 500 years.
The four-kilometer circle of boulevards with the general name Planty, built along the line of the former city walls, is a pleasant park with many flower beds and all kinds of monuments. With a wide ribbon, the boulevards took the Old Town into an almost circular siege. Not much of the defensive structures have survived. Most noteworthy is the strengthening of the Barbican. Above its northern entrance is a white eagle, the coat of arms of Poland. Above the south, from the side of St. Florian's Gate, there is an image of this righteous man, important for Krakow.
Next to the monument to the 500th anniversary of the Battle of Grunwald, which celebrates the victory of the Polish-Lithuanian army under the command of King Vladislav Jagiello over the knights of the Teutonic Order, there is an excellent restaurant of national Polish cuisine Jarema with a delicious menu: pickled herring, red borsch with sorcerers (a type of dumplings) and bigos (lazy cabbage rolls). The best local beer is Zywiec.
According to one of the legends, Krakow is named after the prince Krak, who founded this city in the 10th century. At the beginning of the 11th century, the small town, having received the status of the capital of the state, began to rapidly develop and expand, turning into the main residence of the Polish kings. During its existence, Krakow has experienced major political and military revolts more than once, but managed to preserve its "face" as a cultural and scientific center. There are many ancient monuments, cathedrals, which are real works of architecture in different directions.
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This unusually beautiful building is located on the Market Square, serving as its main architectural decoration, which embodied three styles: magnificent Baroque, graceful Renaissance and strict Gothic. Otherwise, it is called the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The central facade of the church opens onto the square with two quadrangular towers of different heights, crowned on the upper platform with short turrets and a long spire in the center. The high (82 m.) Square tower, rising upward, turns into an octagon due to 8 short turrets, the openwork of thin graceful spiers directed upwards. The second, lower tower serves as the bell tower of the cathedral. It contains a Renaissance-style chapel, outside the window of which there is a bell ringing for the dead. Its top in the corners is crowned with 5 domes: 4 small in the corners and one large in the center, crowned with low spiers.
The interior interiors dazzle with their luxurious beauty and rich splendor of the decoration of the altar and vaults. The Gothic carved wooden altar is unique among others of its kind for the size of its gates, decorated with huge figures of saints. The entire altar is painted with scenes from the Holy Scriptures, decorated with rich sparkling gilding, has a side-altar with the image of the genealogical tree of Christ.
Wawel castle
The ancient castle in Wawel for the Poles can be compared in importance with the significance of the Moscow Kremlin for the Russians. For many years Wawel was the political and administrative center of the state until the capital was moved to Warsaw. The royal castle, the cathedral, a number of defensive fortifications located on the banks of the Vistula are part of the Wawel castle complex. Now it is essentially a museum, where excursions are organized for those wishing to get acquainted with the historical past of Poland. At the entrance to the castle, everyone is greeted by the sculptural monument of Tadeusz Kosciuszki, depicted sitting on a mighty horse. Everyone enters the main royal court through the Coat of Arms, to the right of which is the Cathedral with the mammoth bones hanging over the door - a symbol of prosperity; on the left - the Cathedral Museum.
On the territory of the courtyard there are thematic exhibitions introducing the royal rooms, luxurious chambers, the art of the East; here is the treasure store, the Armory. Through the main courtyard you can go to the Dragon Cave. In the Cathedral, Polish rulers were crowned and buried here. The current building, built in the 14th century, is a striking example of Gothic style with characteristic pointed spiers, square columns and an abundance of long windows. There are chapels in which the remains of the Sigismund kings are buried, and the rotunda of the Blessed Virgin Mary is located here. Wawel Castle is a whole city that embodies the history of the Middle Ages of the Polish state.
Bishops palace
This strictly majestic, light yellow building is associated with the life of one of the most noble and kind-hearted Roman popes - John Paul II (Karol Wojtyła), who settled there in 1944, as a student of the seminary at the Archdiocese of Krakow. He left it with the rank of archbishop in 1978, when he was elected Pope. The Poles sacredly honor this palace as a memory of their wonderful compatriot: after his death, for more than a month, the square in front of the palace was filled with flowers, candles and people praying.
The entrance to the palace is unusually beautiful, where, surrounded by picturesque shrubs and flowers, there is a monument to John Paul II with blessing hands raised to the flock. There is a symbolic window above the front door, from which the pontiff greeted the Krakow youth who came to meet him. Now inside the palace there is a museum of the pope's heritage, the expositions of which represent collections of gifts presented to him by the heads of state of the whole world; objects of ancient painting and sculpture. The Palace of Bishops is never empty during the day, there are always people who have come to pay tribute to the memory of a wonderful person and a religious figure with a pure and kind soul.
Krakow Market Square
Want to see the birthplace of Polish trade? Then head to Krakow's Market Square soon! This is a huge territory, which in the 13th century was set aside for business negotiations and trade. It is considered that the square is on the list of the largest markets in Europe.In addition to the opportunity to plunge into local traditions and learn interesting facts from the history of the city, tourists can also see the famous sights of Krakow, including the Town Hall tower, St. Mitskevich and some others.
The buildings surrounding the market deserve the closest attention. Many of them were created during the Renaissance and Renaissance periods, are distinguished by strict forms and are a real decoration of the square. At the end of the walk, do not deny yourself the pleasure of purchasing the souvenirs sold here. The entrance to the square is free, it works around the clock. It is best to visit during the daytime when local attractions are open. The market is located at Stare Miasto, Rynek Glowny. You can get there by trams and buses, as well as on foot.
Kazimierz
Surprisingly, Kazimierz is a city within a city. This is the part of Krakow that has historically been occupied by representatives of the Jewish community. Therefore, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Jewish synagogues in this part of the former capital of Poland prevail over Catholic churches. All lovers of Jewish history should definitely visit this place, which is filled with Jewish cemeteries, objects of Jewish culture and religious sites. By the way, this very place was chosen by the authors of the film about the Holocaust "Schindler's List" as a film set.
If you find yourself in Kazimierz, we advise you to pay special attention to the two main attractions of the center of Jewish culture - the Church of St. Catherine and the Cathedral of the Corpus Christi. The first will charm you with the sound of a huge organ, which no other musical instrument in Krakow can match. Well, in the second temple, tourists will have the opportunity to personally see the famous painting "Adoration of the Magi". You can find the Jewish quarter at Szeroka 24. As you can imagine, the entrance to the center of Jewish culture is free. You can get to the sights by trams that run along Starovishlna Street.
Love breathtaking water park rides and their amazing atmosphere? Then we invite you to visit one of the largest and most famous complexes in Eastern Europe! Guests can enjoy the huge water slides, swim in the clear water pools, relax in the jacuzzi and just have fun with friends or family. The main pride of the water park is a 202-meter slide, which will give visitors a three-minute descent along dizzying turns with a fall into a pool of warm water. There are simply no analogues to this attraction in Europe. All rides are divided into four groups and differ in color.
Some will provide indescribable emotions with a downhill, others will add adrenaline to the blood with the help of all sorts of effects, and still others will suit young vacationers. Of course, such a landmark cannot go unnoticed. Therefore, it is always crowded here: along with tourists, Poles ride the slides, who come to the water park from all over the country. The amusement park operates all year round. Tourists can buy a full-day pass, which will cost about 15 euros. Children under 3 years old are admitted free. You can find the Krakow water park at Dobrego Pasterza, 126. You can get there by buses, getting off at the Park Wodny stop.
Planty Park
But for those who are tired of the bustle of the city and visiting attractions, the best place to take a break will be the park ring - Planty. Poles like to spend their free time here. Young people hide in dense green thickets in search of solitude and romance, older people breathe free air or play chess, and tourists take pictures with pleasure against the backdrop of magnificent plants. But even here you will not be able to hide from the sights that are found at every step. Here you can find amazing sculptures, monuments, historical and cultural buildings, and even an archeology museum.
By the way, in his collection there are many exhibits of the history of Ancient Egypt, the period of the Middle Ages. To find Planty, it is enough to be in the area of the Old Town. This park ring surrounds its entire territory. According to historical information, this place was previously occupied by huge stone walls, which were designed to protect the inhabitants from uprisings and wars. The entrance to the park is free, but for visiting certain attractions on its territory, you will have to pay a small amount. You can visit the park at any time of the day (although not long ago tourists were forbidden to be here in the evening).
Florian's Gate and Barbican
It is recommended to visit these two sights of Krakow in the same excursion. Florian's Gate is located in the city's ramparts and was built in 1307. They owe their name to the patron saint of Krakow. A special feature of the gate is that the chapel of the Mother of God is located in it, and the coat of arms with an eagle and a relief depicting St. Florian are used as decorations.
The Barbican is also located here, which is a fortification in the form of a massive tower. There is a historical museum and on certain days real knightly competitions are held. Find attractions at ul. Basztowa, 30-547. They work daily from 10.30 am to 6 pm. You can get there by trams or buses, the route of which runs through the area. The ticket price for adult visitors is PLN 7, and for beneficiaries and children - PLN 2 cheaper.
Cathedral of Saints Stanislav and Wenceslas
The Cathedral of Saints Stanislaus and Wenceslas is one of the most revered churches in Poland. The Basilica rises on the Wawel Hill among the monumental and luxurious architectural ensemble of Krakow. The residence of the kings of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was located here, so the cathedral occupies a sacred place in Polish history. From time immemorial, the basilica was intended for the solemn coronation of monarchs, conducting divine services, and also served as a burial vault for rulers, bishops, politicians and military leaders.
The cathedral was erected at the turn of the XI-XII centuries. The original building of the church was a small Romanesque white limestone basilica. In the XIV century, the temple was rebuilt, thereby expanding the cathedral with three naves, chapels and towers. Numerous renovations of the church have significantly changed its appearance. Today the cathedral reflects an amazing jumble of different architectural styles - from Romanesque to Art Nouveau.
Chapels, treasuries and a church are located along the perimeter of the quadrangular brick basilica with elongated window openings. The facade of the cathedral is majestically decorated with three towers, a triangular pediment, relief ornaments and sculptures of Saints Stanislav and Wenceslas. On the north side of the temple stands the Sigismund Tower. It has a massive cathedral bell weighing 11 tons. In the halls of the cathedral, separated by high arched openings, there are luxuriously decorated altars and royal stone, marble sarcophagi.
The relics of the patron saint of Poland - Bishop Stanislav are buried here. His remains are preserved in a silver tomb, which is a masterpiece of jewelry art. The sarcophagus is decorated with twelve relief images of scenes from the life of the saint. The cathedral's main altar, erected in 1650, is a large painting of Jesus crucified on the cross. The panel is framed with a gilded arch, pilasters and a pediment in the center.
Tower of Krakow Town Hall
On the central square of Krakow, there is a Gothic building made of red brick and creamy stone. This is the town hall tower, which was erected at the beginning of the XIV century. The building was part of a municipal building that was demolished due to dilapidation in the 19th century. The austere facade of the tower, whose height is 70 meters, is decorated with lancet and square windows, a mechanical clock, and is also framed by protruding vertical ribs. Over the entire history of its existence, the building has undergone several reconstructions after fires caused by lightning strikes. The tower is crowned with a baroque dome mounted on a polyhedron with arched window openings. A raging strong wind in 1703 pushed the structure 55 centimeters to the side.
The tower's narrow and spiral staircase leads to the observation deck, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Krakow. Inside the building are museum pieces related to the history of the municipality. Noteworthy are the basements of the tower, which were originally intended for storing beer and wine. Later, there were dungeons with torture chambers. Today, the underground of the building attracts visitors with aromatic coffee prepared in the cafe.
Collegium Mayus
More than 100 thousand students live in Krakow. Most of them study at the Jagiellonian University, which is considered one of the oldest in Europe. The celebrated college graduate is the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. The main historical building of the institution is called the Collegium Mayus (Great College). The three-story Gothic structure with two stepped pediments, a small octagonal ledge and rectangular windows was erected in red brick in the 15th century. The walls of the college form a quadrangular courtyard surrounded by an arched gallery with a vaulted ceiling and massive white stone columns. There is a well in the center of the courtyard.
The beginning of the 20th century was marked by the transformation of the Collegium Mayus into a museum. Here you can visit the private chambers of professors, lecture and ceremonial halls, the dining room. The premises display original wooden furniture, unique scientific instruments, astronomical instruments, and a collection of globes. Painted portraits of professors who have taught for 600 years are hung on the walls of the large hall of the university.
Ghetto Heroes Square
Among the many attractions of Krakow, there is one place that reflects the sad events in Polish history. This is the Ghetto Heroes' Square. Here, the memorial cast-iron and bronze chairs, standing on the paving stones, stand out. They symbolize the tragedy of the Jews of Krakow, imprisoned in the ghetto by the German occupiers during the Second World War. The Ghetto Heroes' Square is located on the site where in 1941 the Nazis drove all the Jews of the city beyond the fence. More than 20,000 people lived on this territory with their belongings and furniture in inhuman conditions. From here, the inhabitants of the ghetto were transported to Auschwitz.
Modern Art Museum
In 2004, the municipality of Krakow bought the building of the former Schindler factory to create a museum of modern art in it. Several years after reconstruction, the plant's pavilions were transformed into an avant-garde structure with a glass façade and gabled roofs. The museum is divided into several thematic zones. The spacious halls display interesting works that embody the urgent problems of society. These are exhibitions of conceptual art, collections of paintings by contemporary artists, sculptural compositions, photographs and performances with audiovisual accompaniment. Several cinemas show short films that make museum visitors reflect on being.
Catacombs under the Market Square
The Regional Museum is located under the Market Square in Krakow. This unique institution reflects the history of the medieval city. The exhibition opened in 2010 after six years of archaeological excavations. As a result of research, ancient fragments of houses, structures, monuments, sidewalks and a market were discovered. The museum, located at a depth of four meters, is an amazing labyrinth of the medieval Krakow street. Here you can see ancient walls, coins, vases, trade carts. Among the exhibits, there are multimedia displays equipped with touch screens with holograms. Modern technical equipment recreates the atmosphere of an archaic settlement.
Polish Aviation Museum
On the territory of one of the oldest military airfield in Europe, in the suburbs of Krakow, there is a museum of Polish aviation. Here are real planes, helicopters, gliders and engines. The museum has more than 200 units of aviation equipment from different eras, both civil and military. The models are housed in four buildings in a rotating propeller building and on the former airport runway. The premises of the museum have a cinema hall, a library, a flight simulator simulating a cockpit, information stands and interactive displays. Particularly impressive is the alley where Soviet MiG fighters are stationed.
Juliusz Slowacki Theater
Above the Square of the Holy Spirit dominates the majestic palace, erected in 1893. It is one of the most famous theaters in Europe, named after the outstanding Polish poet and playwright Juliusz Slowacki. The building is considered a masterpiece of eclectic architecture, embodying the layering of different styles. The sandy facade of the building is decorated with numerous bas-reliefs, a portico with pilasters, balustrades, sculptures, massive vaulted windows and cornices.
The structure is crowned with baroque domes. Architectural decorations add sophistication and pomp to the building. The interior of the palace is no less impressive than the exterior. The halls are painted with frescoes by Austrian artists. The theater has four stages on which modern and classical dramas, operas, musicals and comedies are staged.
Church of Saints Peter and Paul
The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Krakow, illuminated in 1635, is the first baroque church in Poland. The church, built of dolomite and bricks, is surrounded by a wrought-iron fence, in front of which 12 statues of the apostles rise on pedestals. The three-tiered facade of the temple is decorated with pilasters with ornate capitals, pediments, bas-reliefs, niches with statues. The building of the basilica is single-nave with attached chapels and a semicircular apse. The structure is crowned with an elegant large dome.
The interior of the church is rather modest and monumental. In the main hall, which is framed by an arched arcade, there are carved benches for parishioners. The vault of the apse is decorated with bas-relief images describing scenes of the life and death of the apostles Peter and Paul. Noteworthy is the main altar, which is a marble pedestal with gilded sculptures. In the center there is a picturesque panel "Handing the keys to St. Peter". In the chapels, you can see many paintings and sculptures created according to all the canons of the Roman Catholic Church.
Basilica of the Holy Trinity
Not far from the Main Market Square in Krakow stands an example of Gothic architecture - the Basilica of the Holy Trinity. The temple was erected in the middle of the 13th century under the leadership of the Catholic missionary Jacek Odrow. The church is a stronghold of tonsured monks who devote their lives to serving God. The basilica has three naves. There are ten chapels in them. The brick facade of the building is decorated with lancet windows with ornate bars. The temple is crowned with a large stepped pediment with Gothic turrets. The entrance to the basilica is through an extension. It is decorated with three graceful arches and gables decorated with bas-reliefs.
The interior of the church is striking in its richness. Arches on tall columns stretch along the main nave. The walls are painted with colorful floral ornaments, and the ceiling is in the form of a cruciform vault. In the halls of the basilica, you can see many wooden statues, sculptures, frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows.
The former Polish capital and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, which, by the way, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, the city of Krakow receives hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. Belarusians are not rare guests of the city. In this article, we will tell you about the most famous places in Krakow, which you must see during your trip.
Krakow was once the capital of the Republic of Poland. It is believed that it is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Since it appeared in ancient times, Krakow is famous for its history. Tourists often come to it, because there are many attractions that are worth seeing.
Picturesque places, ancient architecture fascinate tourists. I want to come here again and again to feel the historical atmosphere.
Market Square
The first place to visit is the market square. Although sales are in full swing here, there is still something to see. The market area was once much smaller. Over time, it was expanded, the population increased, and, accordingly, the number of stalls increased.
On the market square, you can buy any product you like. It is remarkable because its size was included in the list of one of the largest squares in Europe. Plus, there are many fascinating buildings and establishments around the market that are worth seeing.
Wawel Castle
It is considered a symbol of Poland. The castle is an architectural complex that is visited by tourists from all over the world. In front of the main entrance there is the Coat of Arms Gate. They are distinguished by their sophistication.
In front of the main entrance to the castle, there is a bronze monument dedicated to the national Polish hero. It was he who organized the uprising back in 1794. The name of the hero was Tadeusz Kosciuszko.
Cathedral on Wawel
In the courtyard there is a church in memory of the holy martyrs Svyatoslav and Wenceslas. It is periodically restored and today it contains several styles. These are Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance.
In the courtyard you can see many interesting and ancient buildings that have been preserved since 975. As you can see, Wawel Castle must be visited at least once in a lifetime.
The interior of the cathedral is distinguished by its sophistication and luxury. Here is the mausoleum of St. Stanislaus and many other beautiful sights to see.
Palace of the Bishops
Since 1944, John Paul II lived in this building. He became archbishop in 1978 when he was elected by the Pope. The building itself looks outdated, although it is periodically restored, and near the entrance there is a monument to John, which is surrounded by shrubs of amazing beauty and to this day they do not forget to look after him.
The palace houses a museum. In it you can see the legacy of the Pope. There are various exhibitions, old paintings and several sculptures. All this was once brought as a gift.
Kazimierz
There is a beautiful Jewish district in Krakow called Kazimierz. This quarter has its own culture, religion and architecture. Kazemiz is the highlight of Krakow. It turns out, as it were, a different civilization in one city.
When a tourist enters this quarter, the change of religion is immediately felt. There are no longer any Catholic cathedrals, but synagogues. Tourists will be interested in seeing this unique and original area.
Planty
Krakow is famous not only for its ancient architecture. There are also many beautiful picturesque parks in the city. There is an opinion that Planty is the most beautiful and vibrant place to stay. When you walk along the path, the aroma is amazing. Birds are singing, deciduous trees seem to call to listen to the sounds of nature.
In Planty, not only friends come to rest, but also residents of the country. After all, it is worth seeing the beautiful landscapes, breathing clean air. You can come here at any time of the year, as it is beautiful here in any weather.
St. Mary's Cathedral
This is the main holy place in Krakow. Back in the XIV Art. began to erect. True, its construction was completed only half a century later. The cathedral has two large towers that look like royalty. One of them has a golden crown and a high spire on top. There is a helmet on the other tower.
The interior of the cathedral delights not only tourists, but also residents of the country. After all, the building looks like an old castle. Paintings, sculptures and stained-glass windows make you visit this attraction again and again.
Town hall tower
Every city has a town hall and Krakow is no exception. Once upon a time, it was in it that the rulers of the city sat. Now the town hall is gone, and only the tower remains, which has become one of the most beautiful sights of the city.
Two huge lions made of stone are sitting near the entrance to the building. If you go to the second floor, then you can see many artifacts. They were the ones that once belonged to the Polish government. Now these are only antiques, which are of great value for the citizens of the country.
But in the basement there is a treasury and a theater. Their guides advise you to visit first. After all, what you see cannot be described in words, it is so breathtaking from beauty.
Bastion Barbican
This is the cultural and historical value of the country. The bastion is a must-see for every tourist. This building stands in memory of a fortified defensive structure. After all, it was from him that they shot at the enemy and defended the city. The Barbican is a symbol of Krakow, and it is he who is painted on the coat of arms of the city of Krakow.
Any citizen can visit the Barbican. Inside, tourists will see the expositions and learn a little history from them. A tourist should visit this place, since he will not see such a sight anywhere else.
Who doesn't love shopping? Of course, tourists will be happy to go shopping and buy some souvenirs as a keepsake. So, the Krakow Gallery is what visitors need. There are a lot of shops (over 100) of well-known brands in Europe. Moreover, if you take into account constant discounts, and not only seasonal ones, you can profitably buy both a souvenir and a more expensive item in the form of clothing.
There are so many cafes and restaurants that guests of the city never dreamed of. Therefore, while walking around the shops, you can safely go to any cafe you like and have a snack. The prices are quite reasonable. There are also several ateliers and even a cinema. As you can see, there are many interesting things in one place.
The gallery differs from other well-known stores in that there are many sellers here who are fluent in Russian. This is a nice bonus for tourists. Near the gallery there are many squares and a central square where you can take a break from shopping and unwind.
What to see in Krakow in one day
It's nice to know that Krakow is quite a small city and you can see the main sights in one day. Moreover, this applies to those people who are passing through the city.
You need to start from the center of Krakow. The most interesting and fascinating places are collected here. For example, Stare Masto and the market square. Here you can linger a little and buy yourself something interesting as a keepsake.
There is St. Mary's Church on the square, the hike there will not take much time. Then you can visit the Jagiellonian University. After that, you should definitely visit the museum called Czartoryski.
A little further than the market square is the National Museum, which contains the history of the city. There are 11 halls and almost 1000 antiques and art objects. A lot of time can be spent here, so it's best to see the most famous and fascinating antiques.
You can also visit the Palace of the Bishops and see the beauty of the Florian Gate. Not far from the castle is the Kazemizh district. This is an interesting place, as you immediately find yourself in another religion and culture. It seems that in this area there is a completely different country, and not Poland. Moreover, here citizens also lead a different life, which is very different from the Polish one.
Krakow Meadow is a beautiful and large area, and once it was the most ordinary pasture. Here you can relax after your trip and have a snack. Citizens walk here, especially in the evenings. After all, the air in this place is special and you can feel a friendly, calm atmosphere.
Plus, there are many restaurants in Krakow with reasonable prices. Therefore, after a grueling day, you can just go and relax, even if you have a cup of tea.
What to see in the vicinity of Krakow
If you have seen everything interesting in the city, then you can go to other beautiful places. For example, in the State Museum called Auschwitz-Birkenau. It is located in the western part of Krakow, where you can drive about 60 km.
This museum is also called the death camp. Once more than 2 million citizens were killed here. Not every tourist dares to come here. Unless only if he does not know the true name of the museum.
Salt mines "Wieliczka" - underground corridors, or rather labyrinths, where there are many sculptures, and they are made of rock salt. Tourists can walk no more than 2 km. But that's enough to get tired.
Near Krakow there is an architectural and park area, where monasteries and a national park are located. It is very beautiful here and you can just relax and unwind. Since the air and nature are wonderful.
Niedzica Fortress is another attraction, but it is far from Krakow. Approximately about 100 km. Here you can take wonderful pictures not only against the background of the fortress, but also in nature.
You can also go to the park called Tatransky. It is located in the southern part of Krakow. Here you can see a real mountain peak, caves, glacial lakes of birch and fir forests.
The reserve is also located near Krakow. It is also called Babiegur Park. There are deciduous and coniferous forests, as well as many species of birds (over 100). Also, tourists will be able to see wild animals that do not rush to people, but go about their business. And many species of mammals live in these parts. Citizens who visit the reserve will never forget this amazing and wonderful world.
Any place can be reached both by bus and by train. Difference in ticket prices. Moreover, transport runs only on schedule. If you miss it, you can wait a long time for your transport.
Since bus and railway stations operate around the clock, it is possible to purchase round-trip tickets in advance. Then citizens can have a specific time.
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The Vistula is the longest and deepest river in Poland, flowing through most of the country's major cities. The river is very beautiful, and besides, it is of great economic importance.
The Vistula is over a thousand kilometers long, and the total area of its basin is almost 200 thousand square kilometers. The river crosses Poland from south to north, starting at Baranya Gora and flowing into the Baltic Sea. Large cities such as Krakow, Warsaw, Plock and Gdansk are located on the Vistula.
The Vistula's current speed is about 5 kilometers per hour, and the depth varies greatly from mouth to source.
Also on the river is the largest Polish hydroelectric power station - Wroclawek hydroelectric power station. In general, the Vistula ranks prominently among the largest European rivers, and in addition, is one of the most important natural resources of Poland.
Jagiellonian University
Established on May 12, 1364 by Casimir III, the Jagiellonian University is still one of the oldest in Europe and the largest higher education institution in Poland.
Today the university has 15 faculties, which train in 46 areas.
Since the university has a long history, in its lifetime it has seen many students who later became outstanding people. Among them are Pope John Paul II, Jan III Sobieski - King of Poland and many others.
However, the Jagiellonian University is famous not only for the quality of its education, but also for its stunning architecture. After the restructuring, the university building received its current Gothic red brick façade, steep roofs and closed scalloped gables. Passing through the courtyard, the visitor enters the museum halls, striking in their wealth and decoration.
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St. Mary's Church
The main shrine of Krakow is St. Mary's Church, or the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The temple was built in the 13th century in the Gothic style. In the 18th century, the interior of the church was rebuilt in the Baroque style.
Every hour, on the high signal tower, a trumpeter plays an old tune that has become the call sign of Polish radio. The melody sounds to all sides of the world in turn. This tradition dates back to the 15th century, when a trumpeter, at the cost of his life, warned the city of an enemy approaching the walls.
In 2001, after a long hiatus, the tower was opened to the public.
The church has two entrances and two parts: the back part with an entrance through the square is intended for worshipers, and on the right there is a paid entrance for those who come to admire the ancient architecture and decoration. Of particular interest is the three-winged altar of the St. Mary's Church. Its height is over 12 meters and its width is about 11 meters. This altar in Poland is the most significant piece of late Gothic wood sculpture. Ancient stained-glass windows are placed behind the altar, and the walls of the church are painted by famous Venetian artists.
In the evenings, it hosts free organ music concerts.
The Town Hall Tower is the only surviving part of the Town Hall, built at the beginning of the 14th century and dismantled in the 19th century.
The building of the town hall, built of brick and stone, was intended for the work of the Gchorod council and included a place for the city treasury, a court and even a prison, which was located in the basements of the building.
After reconstruction in 1960, the tower was transferred to the Historical Museum, the exposition of which is devoted to the history of the city authorities.
The entrance staircase is decorated with stone lions brought from the Morstin Palace in Plavovice, and on the second floor there are late Gothic portals and stone mascarons from the 14th century. In addition to the museum excursion, you can visit the former treasury of the town hall, the satirical theater "Mascaron" and cafes located in the old cellars.
Czartoryski Museum
The museum was founded in 1878 as a continuation of the first art museum in Poland, established in 1796 by Princess Isabella Czartoryska on the squares of the Czartoryski residence in Puławy. Patriotic relics occupied the "Sibyl's Temple" (a small rotunda in the park), which was opened to the public in 1801.
Old theater
The Old Theater in Krakow lives up to its name. One of the first theaters in Poland to officially open in 1781, today the Old Theater operates four stages in the city center.
The initiator of the opening of the theater was Matthew Witkowski, who was granted permission by the authorities to entertain at a price of PLN 50 per month. Vitkovsky became the first director of the theater. The theater has a very rich history. During the occupation, the Germans completely painted over the beautiful ornaments, changed the color of the walls, and turned the theater into a concert hall. But recently, three halls of the building have been restored, and the turn of the last hall will soon come. In 1991, the Old Theater was given the status of a national one.
It is very difficult to get tickets here, it even happens that a month before the start of the performance, the seats have already been booked. The most famous and professional actors and directors in Poland work here. But the most important thing is that over all these years the quality of the performances has been preserved. Even after one such spectacle of emotions and memories, the viewer will have enough for a long time.
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Wawel castle
Wawel Castle is a symbol of Poland and holds a special place of honor in the heart of any Polish citizen.
The castle is made in the Gothic style and rises at an altitude of 228 meters above sea level. Consists of several cathedral complexes, of which the most famous are the Royal Castle and the Cathedral of Saints Stanislav and Wenceslas.
The castle has a rich history, which is shared with tourists through the exhibitions located inside the castle. Here you can visit the chambers of the Polish kings, the treasury, the Throne Room and the Armory.
Wawel is especially notable for tourists because there is a tradition to bury Polish monarchs here.
The most popular attractions in Krakow with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Krakow on our website.
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Krakow is the recognized cultural capital of Poland. The richness of the historical heritage and the beauty of the architecture of the old quarters attract thousands of tourists to the city every year. Local residents are very proud of the city, as the history of the formation of Polish statehood is inextricably linked with it.
During the Middle Ages, the city became an important spiritual, cultural and educational center. Since the 11th century, churches and monasteries have been erected here, including the magnificent St. Mary's Church and the Romanesque Church of St. Andrew, in 1364 the Jagiellonian University appears - one of the oldest educational institutions in Europe.
Krakow museums are no less interesting, where you can learn the history of Poland and get to know its culture better. Oskar Schindler's Factory and the Museum of Modern Art will certainly interest tourists who are fond of the history and heritage of the XX-XXI centuries.
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What to see and where to go in Krakow?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.
The residence of the Polish kings of the 13th century, located on the banks of the Vistula River. The construction began under Wenceslas II and continued under Casimir III the Great. During the Northern War, the castle was burned down by Swedish troops, after which it was reconstructed in 1724-28. For a long time, the Wawel Castle belonged to the Austrian Empire, and only at the beginning of the 20th century, the Poles managed to buy it back.
The Catholic Cathedral, which has the status of a minor basilica. Earlier on the site of the temple there were churches of St. Wenceslas of the XI century (it was destroyed as a result of hostilities) and St. Stanislaus of the XII century (burned down). A new temple was built to replace the lost ones. The facade of the building is made in the Gothic style. At a later time, Renaissance chapels were added to it. The temple houses the burial vault where kings, poets and national heroes of Poland are buried.
The Market Square is located in the historic center of Krakow. It is home to many iconic landmarks. One of the most notable structures is the Cloth Hall, a shopping gallery that appeared under King Boleslav V. Over the next centuries, the complex was rebuilt several times, overgrown with decorative elements, loggias, arches and columns. The building acquired its modern look at the end of the 19th century.
Catholic Church located near the Main Market in Krakow. The first wooden church on the site of St. Mary's Church appeared in the 13th century. The construction of the modern building began at the beginning of the 14th century. The structure is built of red brick in the early Gothic style and is decorated with magnificent stained glass windows. The interior space is dominated by baroque and late Gothic features.
Until the beginning of the 19th century, there was a full-fledged town hall building on the Market Square, erected in the 14th century. All buildings were demolished due to dilapidation, but the tower managed to survive. In the 1960s. the reconstruction of the building was carried out, after which it passed into the jurisdiction of the city museum. The tower is 70 meters high. At an altitude of 50 meters, there is an observation deck from where you can admire the magnificent architecture of the old quarters.
A quarter in the historical part of Krakow, on the territory of which the Jewish community lived from the 16th century until the occupation of Poland in World War II. In the period 1335 - 1818. Kazimierz was an independent city, since 1800 it became part of Krakow. The Jewish Quarter is one of the main tourist centers. Many historical monuments located on its territory are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
A small street with a length of just over 330 meters, located in the historical part of the city. It is built up with picturesque Renaissance, Baroque and Classicist mansions, most of which served as residential buildings for the Krakow aristocracy. The street got its name from the old defensive tower that was once the entrance to the city - the Florian Gate.
An architectural monument of the 15th century, the northernmost part of the defensive wall around Krakow, which was demolished in the 19th century. The Barbican served as a fortification that protected the entrance to the city through the Florian Gate. It is equipped with seven watchtowers and 130 loopholes. The walls are up to 3 meters thick. Today, a branch of the Krakow Historical Museum is located in the barbican.
Collegium Mayus (Latin for "the greatest collegium") is the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University. The building itself was included in the educational institution at the behest of Vladislav II Yagailo. It housed auditoriums, rooms of professors and a library. In the 19th century, the Collegium Mayus was restored in a neo-Gothic style. Nowadays, the University Museum is located on its territory.
In May 1942, a ghetto was formed on one of the city squares, where more than 4 thousand Jews were herded for further transportation to concentration camps. In 2005, a memorial monument was erected here in the form of rows of chairs, which symbolize furniture thrown out of apartments during the Nazi pogroms. Unlike other squares in Krakow, there are usually few tourists here.
Factory for the production of metal dishes, founded in 1937 by Jewish industrialists M. Gutman, V. Gleitman, I. Kon. In 1939 it went bankrupt and was taken over by O. Schindler, who modernized and revived production. During World War II, Jews from the Krakow ghetto worked here. Thanks to Schindler's efforts, many workers managed to avoid death in a concentration camp. In 2010, a commemorative museum of the same name was opened on the territory of the factory.
The exposition is housed in one of the buildings of Schindler's factory, modernized in 2010. The museum specializes in organizing exhibitions of art objects created in the last decades of the 20th century and at the beginning of the 21st century. It has its own permanent exhibition, which is displayed on the second floor. The gallery has a library, bookstore and restoration workshop.
The catacombs are located under the Market Square. They were created to house a branch of the Krakow Historical Museum in 2010. In the Undergrounds of the Market there is an exposition consisting of the finds of archaeological excavations carried out in 2005 as part of the reconstruction of the Market Square. The dungeons are equipped with modern multimedia equipment, with the help of which historical reconstructions are created.
One of the largest aviation exhibitions in Poland. The museum was established on the site of a former airfield in 1964. Airplanes, helicopters and gliders made in the Czech Republic, Poland, Russia, USA, Great Britain and other countries are exhibited here. There is also a large collection of aircraft engines. The exposition is located in three hangars, as well as on a wide open-air field.
The museum is located in the Kazimierz quarter. It was created in 2004 on the initiative of the journalist K. Schwartz and Professor D. Webber. The exposition is dedicated to Jewish culture, traditions and life, as well as the events of the Holocaust (for the most part - the suffering of the prisoners of the Auschwitz concentration camp). Galicia regularly hosts meetings, seminars and lectures on various aspects.
The museum is located in the building of a stained glass workshop, which was erected in 1907 in the then fashionable Art Nouveau style, designed by L. Voytychko. The exhibition was founded in 2000 with the aim of studying, preserving and developing Polish stained glass art. In addition to inspecting the exhibits themselves, in the museum you can watch the process of making picturesque compositions from colored glass.
The exposition is located on the territory of the former Kazimierz Town Hall. The museum became an independent institution from the ethnographic department of the National Museum of Krakow in 1910. The collection contains over 8 thousand exhibits related to the history and culture of Poland. Most of the items are from the 19th century, but there are also artifacts from earlier historical periods.
The museum was opened in 1796 on the initiative of Princess Isabella Czartoryska. In 1801, as a result of the November Uprising, the exposition was plundered, and the surviving remains were taken to France. In 1970 the collection returned to Poland. The most valuable exhibit of the museum is the painting by Leonardo da Vinci "The Lady with the Ermine" - the only creation of the master, which is located in Poland.
One of the best dramatic scenes in Poland, founded in 1893, which already at the turn of the XIX-XX centuries. gained wide popularity and importance among the theatrical audience. Famous Polish directors and many talented actors worked here, as well as plays by world-famous authors were staged. The building was erected by the architect J. Zaveysky.
Roman Catholic cathedral of the first half of the 13th century, located in the historical part of Krakow. It is believed that the founders of the temple could have been princes Henry II the Pious or Boleslav V the Shy. Researchers have no consensus on this issue. The Gothic facade of the building has been preserved in its original form, having undergone minor changes during the reconstruction of the 19th century.
The temple was built in the Gothic style at the turn of the XIV-XV centuries. The exterior façade, as well as the interior design, reflect the Baroque and Renaissance features that were brought here in the course of later reconstructions. In 1566-1582. a baroque belfry was added to the main building. An important relic is kept inside the basilica - the relics of the Polish preacher St. Stanislav Kazimierczyk.
The church is the first building on the territory of Krakow, erected in the Baroque style. It was built by the Italian architect D. de Rossi at the end of the 16th century for the Catholic Jesuit Order. After the brotherhood was disbanded in the 18th century, the church changed owners several times and was eventually transferred to the Cistercian Abbey. Since 1820, it has been a member of the All Saints Parish in Krakow.
The building was erected in the 11th century in the Romanesque architectural style. The appearance of the cathedral underwent changes in the 18th century during the reconstruction. It acquired some baroque features, although the general architectural concept remained the same. A monastic cloister adjoins the temple, where ancient church relics are kept. There is also a library with a large collection of theological literature.
Dominican temple of the XIII century, built in the Gothic style. After a devastating fire in 1850, the building was almost completely destroyed. The entire interior was burnt out, and the walls of the facade partially collapsed. The temple was rebuilt in the period 1853-1872. During construction work, the surviving part of the facade had to be dismantled, as it was very fragile due to damage. As a result of the restoration work, the original appearance of the basilica has changed significantly.
Since 1992, a complex of religious buildings has been called a sanctuary, which includes the chapel of St. Joseph, the monastery of the Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy, the Chapel of Eternal Adoration, the Basilica of Divine Mercy and other objects. This place was declared a pilgrimage center due to the fact that the relics of St. Faustina Kowalska and the famous icon "Jesus, I trust in You" are kept on its territory.
Memorial mound dedicated to the national hero of Poland Tadeusz Kosciuszko. It is located in the west of Krakow on the natural Sikornik Hill. The monument was erected in 1823. In 1854 a fortress was built around it to house the Austrian garrison. During the fighting for the liberation of Krakow in 1944, the hill played the role of an important observation point for Soviet soldiers.
The very first menagerie appeared in Krakow on the territory of Wawel during the reign of King Sigismund III, when the city was the capital of the Polish state. After Krakow lost its capital status, the zoo gradually fell into decay. The modern menagerie was founded in 1929. At that time, only about 200 mammals and birds lived in it. Today, the Krakow Zoo is home to over 1,500 thousand individuals (260 species).
In the 18th century, on the site where the Botanical Garden is now located, the Czartoryski family park was laid out, which in 1752 was sold to the Jesuit Order. In 1783, the university department of chemistry and natural history received it at its disposal after the dissolution of this monastic brotherhood. At first, the garden occupied a small area of 2.4 hectares. Medicinal and ornamental plants were grown here. Gradually, its area has increased to today's 9.6 hectares.
City park located on the border of the historical part of Krakow on the site of former fortifications (walls and ditches). It was defeated in the 19th century. After World War II and until 1989, the park was in disrepair, until a decision was made to start restoration work. Today Krakowskie Planty is a wonderful place for nature walks, decorated with numerous sculptures and monuments.
The longest river in Poland, with a length of 1047 km. It originates in the mountain range of the Western Carpathians and flows into the Baltic Sea. The Vistula flows through several major Polish cities, including Krakow and the country's capital, Warsaw. Within Krakow, along the banks of the river, there are picturesque public parks and several protected natural areas.
