Krakow, Poland: A Guide to the City’s History & Culture

A common feature of medieval cities is the centrality of the market square to the whole township. What distinguishes the Main Market Square from other cities is it’s uncommon beauty. This being the most iconic and important point of reference for anyone within the city, it is the seat of Krakow’s social and cultural life. You will find The Market Square to be the stage of many traditions of the city, from the procession of the Lajkonik — which is a depiction of triumph in a historical battle— to the yearly competition of the most beautiful nativity scene in December. The Main Market Square was so significant in it contributions to European culture that it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978, being one of the first 12 sites ever listed.

Stare Miasto, Krakow, Poland

Wawel Castle stands as the city’s epicenter of world-class preserved art, history, and culture. First built as a cathedral in 1000 A.D., the castle underwent several renovations before it came to be known as the Wawel Castle we know today. Currently, it features permanent exhibits that recreate rooms from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Boasting a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, military artifacts, tapestries, and furniture, what is equally impressive is this institution’s diligence in preserving these treasures. Offering something for the artist within all of us, Wawel Castle also hosts concerts ranging from full symphonies to quartets and other chamber music configurations as well as cultural dances and operas.

Wawel 5, 31-001 Krakow, Poland, Phone: +12-422-4155

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One of the largest parks in the city, aptly named Planty Park , is the home of a myriad of trees and flowers. It provides the most scenic views of nature that Krakow has to offer. Wide paved roads wind their way around tall green chestnuts and stone benches, leading to ponds where ducks and rooks play with visitors. In the summer, flowers from warmer climate countries bloom and add an exotic flare to the park. Planty is an ideal place for nature lovers, and it serves as a refreshing contrast from the elegant stone buildings that surround it. Also decorating the park are monuments erected to honor significant figures of Krakow, which provides information on the city as you enjoy the warm sun and fresh air.

31-041 Krakow, Poland

The Barbican is one of the more imposing features of the city. Built in 1499 as a defensible structure against the Turks and Tartars, the Barbican still remains to be seen as a great accomplishment in martial architecture. With its seven towers standing proudly around the structure, it gives a sense of both majesty and dread. It’s edifice effectively conceals arrow slits and openings that are strategically placed for archers to have an advantage should the building come under siege. The halls within the Barbican itself are wide enough for soldiers to pass one another with ease, and sufficient and cleverly carved hiding places can be found as well. The building as a whole is appears deceptively smaller than it actually is. This would serve to confuse any army attempting to assess the strength of the garrison within. Today, the Barbican hosts jousting tournaments, mock battles, and feasts complete with dancing that was popular at the time of its establishment. Anyone interested in medieval warfare and the like should definitely stop by the Barbican to get a taste of ancient war in a safer setting.

Nowomiejska 15/17, 00-257 Warszawa, Poland, Phone: +48-22-277-4402

Out of the eight gates built during the Middle Ages, only one has stood against the test of time. St. Florian's Gate stands 34.5 meters high and features a relief of St. Florian on one side, and a stone eagle on the other. The eagle was added in 1820 and designed by the local treasured artist Jan Matejko. Its medieval construction is complemented by Baroque elements, namely the structures that decorate the top or “helmet” of the gate, as well as an altar to the Virgin Mary inside the gate. St. Florian’s gate remains the main entrance to the Old Town and was once connected to the defensive structure in Krakow known as the Barbican. 30-001 Krakow, Poland

The Kosciuszko Mound provides easily the most panoramic view of Krakow in the whole city. From here you can see the iconic landscapes of Krakow, including Wawel, St. Mary's Basilica, Sukiennice and the Main Square. Visiting the mound is also an opportunity to explore the Krakow Fortress that surrounds it. Buying a ticket to the top of the Kosciuszko Mound also permits entry to the other exhibitions in the Fort, which would be a treat for military enthusiasts and aspiring photographers alike as the entire structure is prized for its defensive and artistic architecture. Your money will be well spent as all proceeds from the tickets go to maintaining this national treasure.

Al. Waszyngtona 1, 30-204, Krakow, Poland, Phone: +48-12-425-1116

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When nobles of old would visit the city of Krakow, they would traverse the streets most befitting their majestic status. With its wide cobbled road and unique mixture of modern and venerable establishments, Florianska Street is an attraction still fit for a king. It holds an extensive variety of stores, restaurants, and even night clubs. You could check out the local wares and then grab lunch at McDonald's, or do some shopping after picking up your favorite brew at the local Starbucks. For those more interested in sight-seeing, the street features the house of famous local designer Jan Matejko who is known for his paintings. His house was converted to a museum and is the oldest biographical museum in the whole country. Additionally, the street is also home to the grand Pod Róza renaissance hotel, yet another timeless structure meticulously preserved. There certainly is something for everyone here.

Florianska Street, Krakow, Poland

Also known as the Krakow Cloth Hall, Sukiennice was once the center for international trade. In addition to trading textiles, one could find wax, spices, leather and many more exotic goods. No wonder it was able to be built and rebuilt into the truly breath-taking structure it’s known as today. Its regal design makes it ideal for entertaining monarchs and ambassadors, and it still serves that purpose today. A must see when visiting Sukiennice is the museum on the upper floor which contains the largest permanent exhibition of Polish paintings and sculptures, which are displayed in the order of their historical periods and divided into four luxurious halls. Presenting styles of Pre-Romanticism, Impressionism, Classicist, and Baroque works to name a few, it is any art lovers dream.

Rynek Glowny ?, 31-042, Krakow, Poland, Phone: +48-12-433-5400

Second only to Wawel Cathedral, St. Mary’s Basilica is the most significant religious building in Krakow. Having been graced by the hands of skilled craftsmen over the centuries, St. Mary’s Basilica is composed of a distinct blend of Gothic and Baroque styles. Its high ceilings, intricate sculptures and reliefs, along with the colorful stained glass windows is an awe-inspiring sight. The overall air of solemnity is a refreshing change of pace from the busyness of the streets without. One of its notable features is the Altar of the Holy Cross, an impressive work of black and pink marble displaying an intricately carved stone cross depicting the suffering of Jesus Christ.

Plac Mariacki 5, 31-042, Krakow, Poland, Phone: +48-12-422-0521

Krakow is a city rich in history, and the Jewish Quarter is no exception. Established when Jews began moving into Krakow in the 12th century, this district sets itself apart from the others in styles, smells, and overall atmosphere. In the Jewish Quarter, you may find the oldest Jewish synagogue, the Galicia Museum (which displays over 140 pictures tracing the history and lifestyle of the Jews over the centuries in Krakow, and the Museum of Municipal Engineering. But the district is much more than the sum of its parts as it is almost a city within a city. Here you can find a variety of bars, cafes, and restaurants each with their distinct themes and personalities. Visiting the Jewish Quarter is a special experience for tourists and local alike.

30-001 Krakow, Poland