About Krakow


Kraków was the capital of Poland from 1038 to 1569 and has many tourist attractions. It is also currently important scientific and industrial center in Poland.
A lot of information about Krakow can be found on the official website for tourists (cracow.travel) and Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kraków). Below you can find information about the most important sites.
 
Must-See
1.    Main Square (Rynek Główny)
The largest square of medieval Europe (established in 1257).
2.    St. Mary's Basilica (kościół Mariacki)
A magnificent gothic style church built in the 14th century. Inside the church, the largest and, as many claim, the most beautiful medieval altar in Europe (the entrance for tourists from a side of the church).
3.    Kanonicza Street (ul. Kanonicza)
Small but lovely street originated in the 14th century, leading towards the Wawel Castle.
4.    Wawel Castle and Cathedral
For several centuries the seat of Polish kings, crowned and buried in the Cathedral. Impressive royal chambers and a priceless collection of more than 130 16th century tapestries. Also, a set of marvelous Turkish tents taken by Polish King Jan III Sobieski after the victory at the Battle of Vienna in 1683 (unfortunately, not all accessible to visitors).
http://cracow.travel/guide-to-krakow/let-s-visit/wawel/action,get,id,2925,t,Wawel-Cathedral.html
 
Nice-to-See
 
1.    Rynek Underground
Opened in 2010 under the Main Square (Rynek), the multimedia underground trail “In the Footsteps of Kraków’s European Identity” takes the visitors to the medieval Krakow. You can book your visit on-line.
http://cracow.travel/places-to-go/museums/historical-museum-of-the-city-of-krakow/action,get,id,12184,t,Rynek-Underground.html
2.    Collegium Maius of Jagiellonian University
The oldest surviving building of the University established in 1364. Among its graduates were: Copernicus, the astronomer that revolutionized entire science, Karol Wojtyła who later became the Pope John Paul II, and Wisława Szymborska, the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1996.
3.    Barbican and Florian Gate
Fragments of medieval fortifications protecting the city, including Europe's mightiest barbican.
4.    Lady with an Ermine by Leonardo da Vinci
One of very few existing portraits by Leonardo da Vinci. Currently it is exhibited at the Wawel Castle.
5.    Art of Old Poland. The 12th – 18th century
Paintings and sculptures shown in the Bishop Erazm Ciołek Palace (ul. Kanonicza 17).
6.    20th-Century Polish Art
The top level of the Main Building of the National Museum (al. 3 Maja 1).
7.    Manggha Museum of Japanese Art and Technology
One of the world richest collections of Japanese art. A part of it is exhibited in a modern building designed by Arata Isozaki (ul. Konopnickiej 26).
8.    Jewish Quarter in Kazimierz
Seven synagogues, Jewish Museum, art galleries, restaurants, pubs, cafes, etc.
9.    Aviation Museum
The collection includes unique planes built in the first years of the 20th century.
 
In the vicinity of Krakow
 
Zakopane
One of the most popular summer and winter leisure resorts in Poland offering many attractions. The town is located at the foot of the Tatra mountains.
http://www.zakopane.eu/index.php?option=18&action=articles_show&art_id=1532
 
Oświęcim (Auschwitz/Birkenau)
Official webpage of Memorial/Museum Oswięcim:
http://en.auschwitz.org/z/
 
Pieniny and rafting
http://www.flisacy.com.pl/page,27