Churches of Krakow: the city is filled with churches of architectural significance, many dating from the 13th century. There are several that are particularly noteworthy, including: the Corpus Christi Church, built in the 15th century and used by the King of Sweden during his siege in the mid-17th century; the Franciscan Church and Monastery, dating from the 13th century and featuring art nouveau stained-glass; the 11th century Romanesque Church of St Andrew; and the Church of Our Lady, where a bugle call marks every hour.
Dragon’s Den (Smocza Jama): is a cave found at the foot of Wawel Hill, considered by legend to be the home of a dragon that terrorised early settlers. According to the legend, the dragon required a sacrifice of one maiden each week, which troubled the king.
Market Square (Rynek Glowny): is the largest medieval marketplace still in existence in Europe, and is the centre of activity in the city. The square is also home to over 20 outdoor cafes that are filled with customers during the summer months. Traditionally, since 1320, the kings of Poland would come to the square after their coronation to meet their loyal subjects. This is today a popular spot for locals to hang out, watch people and enjoy the great summer weather.
Stara Synagoga (Old Synagogue): is the oldest example of Jewish architecture of a religious nature surviving in Poland. It was built during the 15th century, and damaged severely during Nazi occupation – but has been fully restored and now houses a museum dedicated to the culture and history of Krakow’s Jews.
Ulica Kanoncza: typically considered one of the most beautiful streets in Europe, Ulica Kanoncza begins at the bottom of Wawel Hill and continues on to the centre of the old city. Most houses lining the street were built during the 14th and 15th centuries, and are still in remarkable condition. Many religious dignitaries lived here over the centuries, including Pope John Paul II, when he was based in Krakow.
Royal Castle (Zamek Krolewski): dates from the early 1500s, when it was built over the ruins of another castle, commissioned by King Sigismund the Old. A substantial part of the Renaissance castle remains standing today, including its beautiful courtyard.
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