Krakow, Poland

Krakow is a city in southern Poland, lying on both sides of the upper Vistula River. It is one of the largest cities in Poland and has traditionally been one of the leading centers of Polish academic, economic, cultural and artistic life. It was the official capital of Poland until 1596.

Here are some of the most famous places in Krakow, Poland:

• Krakow Main Market Square is the largest medieval town square in Europe. It is surrounded by colorful buildings, including the Cloth Hall, a Renaissance-era trading outpost.
• Krakow’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. It is home to many historical landmarks, such as the Wawel Royal Castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the Barbican.
• St. Mary’s Basilica is a Gothic church with a soaring spire that is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Krakow. The church is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and its annual trumpeting ceremony.
• Oskar Schindler’s Factory is a former enamelware factory that was used by Oskar Schindler to save the lives of over 1,000 Jews during the Holocaust. The factory is now a museum that tells the story of Schindler’s heroic actions.
• Auschwitz is a former Nazi concentration camp located about an hour from Krakow. Auschwitz is one of the most important historical sites in Poland and a reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.
• Wawel Royal Castle is a centuries-old castle that was once the seat of Polish kings. The castle is now a museum that houses a collection of Polish art and artifacts.
• Wawel Dragon is a legendary dragon that is said to live under Wawel Castle. The dragon is a popular tourist attraction and there are many statues and souvenirs depicting it.
• Wieliczka Salt Mine is a centuries-old salt mine located about 10 kilometers from Krakow. The mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a tour of the mine and see its many chambers and tunnels.