Krakow’s city center has withstood numerous wars and held its “power” with its untouched architectural beauty. Today, the ancient cobblestone streets, magnificent cathedrals and imposing castles on the hills testify to the long history and rich cultural values of the city that was once the capital of Poland until the late 16th century.
A visit to Wawel Castle and the nearby cathedral is a must as it still houses the traditional burials of Polish kings and displays the patterns on their sarcophagi.
From Wawel Castle, visitors can easily walk to the market in the central square - home to the bronze head statue by famous Polish sculptor Igor Mitoraj and St. Mary's Basilica.
Coming to Kazimierz - the old Jewish quarter in the heart of Krakow, visitors will admire Jewish temples and cemeteries commemorating the decline of one-tenth of the Jewish population after the Nazi genocide.
When you reach the corner of Ghetto Street, you will see a very special scene: empty metal chairs placed in the space surrounded by the train stop and the main road.
It was here during World War II that Jews were loaded onto trains to concentration camps. They were forced to leave their homes and all their personal belongings and possessions behind. Packages of belongings belonging to Jews were abandoned on the streets. This memorial represents the chairs abandoned by Jews waiting for their owners to return.
You can visit Krakow at any time of year, but be prepared for cold and wet weather if you plan to go in winter.
