Krakow

Krakow (Poland) – the most detailed information about the city with photos. The main sights of Krakow with a description, guides and cards.

Krakow City (Poland)

Krakow is one of the most ancient and beautiful cities of Poland, located in its south on the banks of the Vistula River. This is the former capital. of the Polish kingdom, whose historical heritage has survived the time of the Second World War firestorm, and the historic center is included in UNESCO list. Krakow impresses with its unique architecture and ancient landmarks that are closely related to the history of Poland and are of great importance for the Polish people: the legendary Wawel, the Main Mariats Church, Florian’s Gate and Barbican.

1. Story
2. sights
3. Main market
4. Wawel
5. Florian’s Gate and Barbican
6. Krakow Accommodation
7. Parks of Krakow
8. Kitchen and food
9. Kraków Travel Guides

Historical Center Krakow

Krakow – a city with a rich history, the former capital of Poland (in 14-17 centuries) and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Until the 18th century here Polish kings were crowned. Despite all the disasters that survived Poland in the 20th century, including World War II, Krakow preserved surprisingly well. Now Krakow is a modern city with beautiful architecture and interesting traditions. Often his called magical, magical, the pearl of Poland. This is the city in who fall in love immediately and forever.

Story

The city is conveniently located on the river. Wisla. It is in this place the river becomes shipping, which played a big role in the development of Krakow. The first mention of the settlement at this place dates back to the 10th century. Archaeological research has shown that already in the 11th century here there was a fortification of the Slavic tribe of Wislian. In specific an era in the city settled many Germans.

View of Wawel from shores of the Vistula, Krakow

From the 14th century, Krakow began to rise above other Polish cities. At the end of the 14th century, the famous Jagiello was crowned here. AT the era of his descendants, the value of Krakow is increasing, and the city rapidly getting richer. The population already numbered about 100 Thousands of people.

In 1610 the capital of Poland is transferred to Warsaw, but until 18 centuries kings continue to be crowned in Krakow. Transfer of the capital Warsaw and the war led the city to decline. At the end of the 18th century in Krakow lived only 9.5 thousand people.

In 1795, Krakow came under the rule of Austria. From 1809 to 1815 year belonged to the Duchy of Warsaw. After the “Napoleonic Wars “Krakow became a free city (independent neutral republic). This has a beneficial effect on the city. Krakow recovered from past adversity and gradually returned to its former appearance. But The free city of Krakow did not exist for long. In 1846 to The Vienna Agreement, Krakow was transferred to Austria.

Until 1918, Krakow was part of Austria-Hungary. V1918 years after the unification of Poland, the city again became Polish.

Panorama of Krakow

During the Second World War until 1945, Krakow was occupied by Germany. The city was liberated by Soviet troops 19 January 1945. During the retreat, German troops wanted to blow up city, but thanks to the joint operation of the Soviet and Polish Army city managed to keep almost unharmed.

During the time of socialism, the industrial importance of Krakow increased, and the population of the city began to grow rapidly.

Now Krakow is the administrative center of the Malopolska Region, largest scientific, cultural, tourist and economic center Poland. The city consists of an inner city and 7 suburbs.

Accommodation

Krakow offers ample accommodation for all groups. tourists. The city has a huge number of hotels, hostels. You can also find cheap apartments. Krakow – very popular tourist destination, so you need to plan accommodation in advance.

Kitchen and food

Krakow is a great place for gastronomic tourism, and with food here should not be a problem – restaurants with Polish, European cuisine, fast food, bars. Especially for you we noted interesting restaurants with Polish and regional cuisine on map of Krakow. The price in them is slightly higher than average. If you know cool restaurant – write in the comments!

Story

The city is conveniently located on the river. Wisla. It is in this place the river becomes shipping, which played a big role in the development of Krakow. The first mention of the settlement at this place dates back to the 10th century. Archaeological research has shown that already in the 11th century here there was a fortification of the Slavic tribe of Wislian. In specific an era in the city settled many Germans.

View of Wawel from shores of the Vistula, Krakow

From the 14th century, Krakow began to rise above other Polish cities. At the end of the 14th century, the famous Jagiello was crowned here. AT the era of his descendants, the value of Krakow is increasing, and the city rapidly getting richer. The population already numbered about 100 Thousands of people.

In 1610 the capital of Poland is transferred to Warsaw, but until 18 centuries kings continue to be crowned in Krakow. Transfer of the capital Warsaw and the war led the city to decline. At the end of the 18th century in Krakow lived only 9.5 thousand people.

In 1795, Krakow came under the rule of Austria. From 1809 to 1815 year belonged to the Duchy of Warsaw. After the “Napoleonic Wars “Krakow became a free city (independent neutral republic). This has a beneficial effect on the city. Krakow recovered from past adversity and gradually returned to its former appearance. But The free city of Krakow did not exist for long. In 1846 to The Vienna Agreement, Krakow was transferred to Austria.

Until 1918, Krakow was part of Austria-Hungary. V1918 years after the unification of Poland, the city again became Polish.

Panorama of Krakow

During the Second World War until 1945, Krakow was occupied by Germany. The city was liberated by Soviet troops 19 January 1945. During the retreat, German troops wanted to blow up city, but thanks to the joint operation of the Soviet and Polish Army city managed to keep almost unharmed.

During the time of socialism, the industrial importance of Krakow increased, and the population of the city began to grow rapidly.

Now Krakow is the administrative center of the Malopolska Region, largest scientific, cultural, tourist and economic center Poland. The city consists of an inner city and 7 suburbs.

Accommodation

Krakow offers ample accommodation for all groups. tourists. The city has a huge number of hotels, hostels. You can also find cheap apartments. Krakow – very popular tourist destination, so you need to plan accommodation in advance.

Kitchen and food

Krakow is a great place for gastronomic tourism, and with food here should not be a problem – restaurants with Polish, European cuisine, fast food, bars. Especially for you we noted interesting restaurants with Polish and regional cuisine on map of Krakow. The price in them is slightly higher than average. If you know cool restaurant – write in the comments!

In Krakow, also formed interesting regional dishes:

• żurek po krakowsku – soup made from flour and bran with meat
• barszcz czerwony krakowski – Krakow borsch
• sułkowicka krzonówka – thick soup with meat, egg, greens, horseradish
• pierogi łomniczańskie – dumplings or dumplings
• rosół polski – chicken soup
• kapuśniak z grzybami – cabbage soup with mushrooms
• strojcowskie zawijoki z ziemniaków – cabbage rolls with potatoes and mushrooms
• prażone – prażonki polańskie – fried potatoes sausage, bacon, onion
• kaszana – kiszka z kapustą zasmażaną
• strząska – egg, bacon, sausages

From the traditional local products, pay attention to:

• Obwarzanek Krakowski – Baked Bagels
• Chleb prądnicki – black sourdough bread
• Bryndza podhalańska – cheese of brynza
• Oscypek – cheese
• Redykołk – cheese
• Suska sechlońska – dried fruit
• Kiełbasa lisiecka – sausage
• Jabłka łącki – local apples
• Karp zatorsk carp
• Fasola Piękny Jaś z Doliny Dunajca / fasola z Doliny Dunajca – beans
• Jagnięcina podhalańsk – lamb
• honey
• cognac and plum brandy

Parks

Despite the old age – Krakow is quite a green city. It is especially interesting that the historical center of the city is literally belted green zone. On the map we marked several parks of Krakow botanical garden and zoo.

Krakow Zoo – contains more than 1,300 inhabitants, which refer to 270 species: giraffe, Przewalski’s horse, dwarf hippopotamus, panda, snow leopard, Amur tiger, wolves, antelope, chimpanzees, lemurs, Indian elephant, Humboldt penguins, etc. Zoo located in a beautiful green area – Volsky Forest. One of favorite places of rest of the locals.

Kraków Travel Guide – tourist itineraries and attractions on the map

The most interesting tourist routes through the pearl of Poland – Krakow with a description and map.

Tourist route along the royal road

The royal road – the historical path that leads from the Florian gate to the royal castle Wawel. It is by this way, when Krakow was the capital of Poland, drove the kings of Poland. Here you can see the main the sights of Krakow, enjoy its ancient architecture.

Guide “Krakow in 2-3 days”

If you come to Krakow for a few days, we offer travel guide that includes all major attractions cities. Krakow is a city that can be recognized quickly, but always discover something new. Even such a short visit can bring a lot of impressions and feelings full, genuine satisfaction. It should be noted that all the sights of the city are very compact and you you can see everything without haste. Another advantage is that most of the historic center is closed to cars that just makes you enjoy hiking.

Tourist route for industrial Krakow (Podgorsk)

Route through the old industrial district of Krakow -Podgorsk. Formed in the late 18th century on the right bank Until 1915, the Vistula was a separate city with its own coat of arms, Market and Town Hall. This is the industrial center where they lived merchants and artisans, factories were built. During World War II here was a Jewish ghetto.

Old streets guide

The route through the ancient streets of Krakow, known from the 14th century to feel the authentic atmosphere of the old city.

Sights of Krakow

The sights of Krakow are concentrated in the historical the city center – Stare Miasto, which is listed UNESCO heritage. Among all the ancient cities of Poland, Krakow only miraculously survived during World War II. Therefore he is very popular among tourists from all over the world.

Historical Center

The main wealth of Krakow – the historical center. Right here reflected almost a thousand-year history of the city. The old city of Krakow is a unique treasure trove of art, historical monuments and landmarks that represent almost all architectural styles – from the Middle Ages to the present.

The center of the city for hundreds of years is the Market Square. (Main Market) – the largest medieval city square in Europe, which remains unchanged since 1257. Here too Jagiellonian University is located – the oldest, after Prague University of Central Europe.

Market Square (Main Market) in Krakow

Another famous place in Krakow is Wawel. Former residence Polish kings. Currently, the Wawel Castle serves as as a museum, in 71 halls of which there are many interesting expositions.

All this, as well as old streets, squares, churches and buildings create a special magical atmosphere in the city.

Main market

The main market is the old square of Krakow. It was built in the middle of the 13th century and is one of the largest medieval space in Europe. Buildings located around the perimeter of the square built in the 14-15 centuries. Modern facades of houses are made in classical style after numerous restructuring of buildings in 18-19 centuries. The historic center of Krakow is closed to traffic transport (except public and local cars residents), so it’s nice to walk on foot. In the Main Market and there are many places of interest around it – St. Mary’s Church, Cloth Hall, Town Hall, Jagiellonian University, various monuments and sculptures.

Also pay attention to monument to AdamMickiewicz – national to the poetPolish. Behind the building of the Sugar Row in corner of the main The market for the church has been destroyed. The Wojciech is one of the most Krakow’s oldest stone buildings, with a history of 1000 years old. Architecture kostelavavhodit to top Polish Romanesque architecture of the early Middle Ages.

From the city hall of Krakow, which was built in the 14th century, there was only a 70 meter tower with a viewing platform. For a fee you can climb there and see the beautiful panorama of the Old Krakow.

Near the tower of the town hall there is a sculpture: Associated Eros, which symbolizes insane, blind love, from which they lose head

Panorama of the Main of the market

St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church or Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Krakow is the main cathedral of the city. The architectural style is gothic. Mariacki Church – the main architectural landmark Main Market and the most beautiful church in Krakow.

The first church in the Romanesque style was here in 1221-1222. He was destroyed during the Mongol-Tatar raids. In the years 1290-1300 This place was built early gothic temple. In the middle of the 14th century erected a modern presbytery. At the end of the 14th century, the church in the result of the restructuring of the hall of the temple turned into a basilica (the church has acquired a modern look).

St. Mary’s Church Krakow

In the first half of the 15th century, side chapels were completed. AT In the middle of the 15th century, the church was damaged during an earthquake. At the end of the XV century Mary Church has found one of its main decorations – sculptural masterpiece of the late Gothic – Grand Altar – the creation of Vita Squash

The facade of the church is decorated with two towers. High Tower (also called Heinalitz) has a height of 82 m. The plan has a square shape, closer to the top turning into an octagon. The tower is covered with gothic Matias Heringkan’s helmet, 1478. Low tower, 69 m high, is a belltower. The plan has the form the square has a clearly marked division into floors underlined eaves and window openings. The tower is located renaissance chapel Paul’s

Interior St. Mary’s Church

The interior of the temple combines the styles of Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau. The presbytery is covered with a starry vault created by master Chipser in 1442 The coat of arms of Poland, Krakow and Bishop Ivo Odrovonzha – the founder of the first stone Mariatsky the church. Sculptures of prophets are installed in wall niches Jeremiah, Daniel, David, Ezekiel, Jonah, and Isaiah.

Cloth Hall

Cloth Hall (Polish. Sukiennice) – a building on the market square in Krakow. Previously, there were shopping arcades. Cultural monument Malopolska province. The cloth ranks begin their story with 1257 when King Boleslav V Shameful built of stone in the middle of the market square is a double row of cloth trading institutions.

Cloth rows

In the middle of the 14th century, King Casimir III the Great built a new the building of cloth rows, which was in the Gothic style. This building burned down in 1555.

At the beginning of the 15th century, the cloth ranks were rebuilt: a large hall woolen rows received arched vault, the outer walls got decorative attic with macaroons, loggias with columns appeared.

From the Main Market Square, you can go to Wawel Street. Grodzka. This is the old street of Krakow with beautiful architecture, whose history begins in the 13th century. She was part of The royal road, which drove the Polish kings, bound for Wawel. On the street Grodzka also located just a great number of churches, among which stand out: the church Holy Trinity (on Stolarska 12), the church of Sts. Joseph (Poselska 21), church of sv. Peter and Paul (Grodzka 52A) and the Church of Sts. Idziego (Grodzka 67).

Church of sv. Joseph in Krakow

From the Main Market Square, you can go to Wawel Street. Grodzka. This is the old street of Krakow with beautiful architecture, whose history begins in the 13th century. She was part of The royal road, which drove the Polish kings, bound for Wawel. On the street Grodzka also located just a great number of churches, among which stand out: the church Holy Trinity (on Stolarska 12), the church of Sts. Joseph (Poselska 21), church of sv. Peter and Paul (Grodzka 52A) and the Church of Sts. Idziego (Grodzka 67).

Church of sv. Joseph in Krakow

Wawel

Wawel (Polish Wawel) – an architectural complex and the main landmark of Krakow. Located on a hill height of 228 meters in the area of ​​Stare Miasto. It is associated with the emergence and development cities.

Wawel view

For a long time it was the center of the whole Polish state. Here Polish kings were crowned, and they were buried here. Main Sights of Wawel – Royal Castle and Cathedral St. Stanislaus and Wenceslas Cathedral – a beautiful Gothic cathedral 14 century, which buried the Queen of Poland, St. Jadwiga. Cost of Wawel visits – adults – 20 zloty, children – 12 zloty

Wawel is not working: January 1, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday, November 1, November 11, December 24 and December 25. From November 1 until March 31 all exhibitions are closed on Mondays.

Saints Cathedral Stanislav and Wenceslas

Cathedral of St. Stanislaus and Wenceslas – the cathedral on Wawel Hill. The cathedral is catholic. Earlier in its place there were two other temples. The first is the church of Sts. Wenceslaw was built in 1020 and destroyed by the Czech prince Břetislav in 1038. In 1142 the three-nave church of the bishop and saint stood here. Great Martyr Stanislav Shchepanovsky, who was destroyed in 1305 year Later, Bishop Nanker began to build a third, already Gothic temple.

The Church of St. Stanislav and Wenceslas over the centuries repeatedly rebuilt. In 1399 was buried here Queen of Poland – Saint Jadwig.

Florian’s Gate and Barbican

Florian’s Gate (semi. Brama Floriańska w Krakowie) – medieval gate with tower located in the Old Town. They are remnants of ancient city walls. Florianskie Vororoto mentioned since 1307. From them began the royal road to Wawel. The height of the gate tower is 34.5 m. Inside the gate is the altar in Classicism style of the early XIX century.

Florian gate in Krakow

A little away from the Florian Gate is located Tower Basztę Pasamoników , built in the 15th century.

BasztaPasamoników

Barbican (Polish. Barbakan) – historical and architectural monument. Previously, it was the northernmost part of the ancient city ​​walls. The Krakow Barbican was erected in 1498–1499 years during the reign of the Polish king Jan I Olbracht. The Barbican originally defended the Florian Gate and was connected to them a bridge. The Barbican had two gates that connected by a drawbridge located above the filled with water moat

Krakow Barbican

The Barbican is currently used to house exhibits. various museum exhibitions, sporting events, historical reconstructions.

Florian’s Gate and Barbican

Florian’s Gate (semi. Brama Floriańska w Krakowie) – medieval gate with tower located in the Old Town. They are remnants of ancient city walls. Florianskie Vororoto mentioned since 1307. From them began the royal road to Wawel. The height of the gate tower is 34.5 m. Inside the gate is the altar in Classicism style of the early XIX century.

Florian gate in Krakow

A little away from the Florian Gate is located Tower Basztę Pasamoników , built in the 15th century.

BasztaPasamoników

Barbican (Polish. Barbakan) – historical and architectural monument. Previously, it was the northernmost part of the ancient city ​​walls. The Krakow Barbican was erected in 1498–1499 years during the reign of the Polish king Jan I Olbracht. The Barbican originally defended the Florian Gate and was connected to them a bridge. The Barbican had two gates that connected by a drawbridge located above the filled with water moat

Krakow Barbican

The Barbican is currently used to house exhibits. various museum exhibitions, sporting events, historical reconstructions.

Kazimierz

Kazimierz is a Jewish district of Krakow. One of the most mysterious places of the city. Jews began to settle in Kazimierz, since the 14th century.

Until World War II, Kazimierz was the center of the Jewish community. Krakow. More than 64,000 Jews lived here.

Jewish cemetery in Kazimierz

Today Kazimierz is one of the most recognizable places in Krakow. This is a lively cultural and artistic district, which attracts those who want to feel the spirit of bohemia. Here You will find the original cafe and famous art workshops, galleries and shops.

Kazimierz

Maps and guides

Map – Attractions of Krakow Map – Museums of Krakow

Krakow on the map of Poland