Krakow - Old Town

Krakow Old Town

The Old Town has plenty of historical monuments.  It is best explored casually, savouring the architectual details, while dropping into cosy cafes along the way.

(above pic, left column) St Mary's church (St Mary's basilica) has 2 unequal towers.  The lower one served as a bell tower and held 5 bells, while the taller one functioned as a watchtower.  Every hour, a bugle call is played on a trumpet from the higher tower.  The melody is based on 5 notes and breaks off abruptly in midbar.  Legend links it to an arrow piercing a watchman's throat, while he was sounding the alarm after spotting the invaders.

(middle column, top pic) The Town Hall Tower is next to the Cloth Hall.  The Cloth Hall was built for cloth trade but now the lower floor trades souvenirs while the upper floor is an arts gallery. (middle column, middle pic) This is the statue of Adam Mickiewicz, surrounded by 4 figures - Motherland, Learning, Poetry and Valour. (middle column, bottom pic) We were delighted to find the hot chocolate served in Poland is actually sinfully melted chocolate!

(right column) The main market square is car-free and the largest medieval town square in Poland and reputedly in all of Europe.  The above landmarks are all on this market square.

Krakow Old Town Street Performers

On a sunny day, there are many colourful street performers in this market square.