|
|
|
Things to do in Krakow
There are many opportunities to discover the past in Krakow. While it may have some wonderful shops and interesting boutiques, it is first and foremost the history of the city which attracts the majority of its visitors.
One favoured pastime of both travellers and locals alike is to enjoy the city by taking in its spacious layout and simply walking around part of its Old Town. The Planty is traditionally known as the very centre of Krakow and this oval-shaped ring of greenery provides a wonderful sanctuary in the heart of the city. Designed in the 19th century as a garden ring to replace the walls which once encased the ancient city, the Planty has become an important part of the Krakow landscape and a wonderful site to relax and take in some of the splendid structures contained in the Old Town.
The Planty also offers an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy some of Krakow's many museums. Situated along this oval ring are a vast number of museums and galleries which look at different periods and instances of the city's illustrious history.
One of the main attractions in Krakow is its Royal Castle. Situated at the top of Wawel Hill, the castle can be seen from across Krakow and as such looks down proudly over its subjects. Still in remarkable condition, the castle – which has served more as a royal palace than as a fortified defence – was built in the early 16th century at the behest of King Zygmunt I the Old. He brought the best and boldest architects and artists from across Europe to ensure that the structure would be the envy of the world and it remains an impressive structure to this day.
In keeping with the grandeur and largesse associated with the design of the city, Krakow's Royal Castle has a large arcaded courtyard which has proved an ideal setting for festivals, tournaments and events down the years.
Another fine monument dating back to the Middle Ages is the imperious Wawel Cathedral. The former coronation site for Polish royalty, the cathedral sits adjacent to the royal Palace and houses an impressive collection of artworks and artefacts, some dating back to the time of the cathedral's construction in the 16th century.
Krakow's Main Square has become a focal point for events in the city and is also a meeting place for locals and travellers alike. Unsurprisingly, the popularity of the venue with visitors has been capitalised on by restaurateurs, many of whom have set up some wonderful restaurants and cafes at the Square's edge. However, these are unlikely to be the cheapest places to find food in Krakow, although some will be reasonably priced.
A number of historic buildings are situated in the Main Square, including the Cloth Hall, which has become one of the branches of Krakow's National Museum. Another important structure in the Square is the Church of St Wojciech, which has been the site of some important archaeological discoveries. Also situated in the Main Square is the solitary tower, which stands as a reminder to all who visit of the Town Hall which was demolished in the 19th century.
|
|
|
|
Things to do
