By Rosaly Escueta and Giorgio Gazzaniga Spairani
Photography by Agence Rosé Presse and Emma Dai
Special thanks to the Polish Tourist Organisation
“The Trumpeter of Kraków” and “Schindler’s list” are just two of the many books written in this Polish wordsmith wonderland. We have exactly 72 hours to unearth the best kept secrets, where to dine, and to take life one sip at a time. It is our first time but we are determined to make every second count, no matter what, because unravelling the true Kraków — is like that cork-popping sound of bottled poetry!
WHAT TO SEE AND DO
The main square is the first thing you absolutely have to see. dating back to the 13th century, rynek Głowny is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe, and from 1978 was placed on the UNeSCo world heritage list. The square space is surrounded by historical townhouses and churches. The most important is St. Mary’s gothic cathedral. every hour a trumpet call is played in the four cardinal directions by a real trumpeter, who waves his hand saluting the people in the square after he plays. The centre of the square is dominated by the Cloth Hall or the market, rebuilt in 1555 in the renaissance style, topped by a beautiful parapet.
If you want to buy some souvenirs, that’s the perfect place to go. you can also enjoy the super busy square with a relaxed horse-drawn carriage tour around the city, operated by women dressed in traditional Polish clothes as coach drivers. art lovers should also check out the “eros Bound” statue by Polish sculptor Igor Mitoraj, conspicuously placed under the Town Hall tower.
The Jewish old Ghetto is now the fancy area of Kraków with all the nightlife pubs and bars. Art lovers will appreciate the “Empty Chair” memorial as well, which is just near the entrance of the Jewish area, in Ghetto Heroes Square. Thirtythree bronze empty chairs are placed around the square as a stark reminder of the atrocities carried out against Jews during the Second World War. There’s also the bike tour option if you are a little sporty. Biking in Kraków is so cool, especially because you can experience the summer breeze under the trees in Planty Park. This park was constructed around the whole old town, where previously the city walls were built.
FOOD
Dining in Kraków is an unforgettable experience as Polish people are very proud of their cuisine. It’s a great opportunity to taste the local heritage and culture from award-winning restaurants to the time-honoured medieval bars!
HOTELS
The main square is the perfect location to stay, you can easily reach everywhere simply by walking. There are two hotels that caught our attention — the Bonerowski Palace and the Sheraton Grand Kraków.
FASHION
Kraków is well known for its new concept stores popping up in old industrial spaces and along medieval causeways. There is a sort of european alternative style mixed with Soviet touches, reminiscent of the old Communist era. It is very far from the haute looks of Paris and Milan, instead leaning nearer to the shabby-chic culture of Berlin. Street fashion here is absolutely the trend and if you are into it don’t miss Pan Tu Nie Stal, an urban street wear store with a Soviet touch. Alternatively, if high-end brands and big names are your thing, try Pasaż 13. for the vintage addicted Tania odziez is a second-hand emporium for the perfect faux furs and leather bargain finds.