Krupnicza 15, 50-043 Wrocław, Poland
Fosa Miejska, also known as the "City Moat," is a historic area here in Wrocław Poland. It was once a defensive water-filled moat that surrounded the old city center, including Wrocław's Old Town. The moat was constructed during medieval times to protect the city from potential invaders. Over the years, as the city expanded and modernized, the moat lost its defensive significance and was eventually drained.
One significant element located near Fosa Miejska was the Monument to Stalin. The monument was erected in 1953 during the period of communist rule in Poland. It was a grandiose, imposing structure that depicted Joseph Stalin, the Soviet leader, alongside Polish and Soviet soldiers. The monument was meant to symbolize the close relationship between Poland and the Soviet Union during the post-World War II era.
However, with the changing political climate and the growing discontent with Soviet influence in Poland, the monument became a source of controversy and was eventually dismantled in 1956 during the Polish October protests. The removal of the Stalin Monument marked a significant moment in Wrocław's history and Poland's shift away from Soviet influence.
Today, the area around Fosa Miejska is a peaceful and scenic part of the city, with walking paths and green spaces that invite both locals and tourists to enjoy leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. The history of the Monument to Stalin serves as a reminder of Wrocław's complex and ever-evolving past.
423J+W8 Wrocław, Poland
The historic opera house in Wrocław, Poland, is known as the Wrocław Opera, or "Opera Wrocławska" in Polish. This opera house is one of the city's most significant cultural institutions and a prominent venue for opera, ballet, and other performing arts.
The Wrocław Opera has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it was originally founded as the "Opera Theater." Over the centuries, it underwent various transformations, rebuildings, and changes of location. The current neo-baroque building that houses the opera company was constructed in the late 19th century.
The opera house's architecture is a stunning example of neo-baroque style, characterized by ornate decorations, grand facades, and a majestic interior. The building's design features a richly decorated foyer, grand staircases, and a beautiful auditorium.
It is the only opera in Poland, which since 1997 has presented “supershows”, spectacles prepared in unconventional, big spaces for thousands of spectators, with hundreds of performers and using monumental sceneries and special effects.
plac Wolności 6, 50-071 Wrocław, Poland
To our left is The Royal Palace in Wrocław, known as "Pałac Królewski." The Royal Palace has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. It was originally constructed as a residence for local dukes and monarchs and underwent several expansions and renovations over the centuries.
The palace exhibits a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements. The impressive façade, elegant courtyards, and intricately designed interiors make it a masterpiece of historic architecture.
The Royal Palace served as the residence of various rulers and dignitaries throughout its history. Notably, it was a residence for the Habsburgs, including Maria Theresa and her son Joseph II, during the 18th century, as well as former Prussian Kings.
Today, the Royal Palace houses several cultural institutions and museums. The Museum of Architecture, which showcases the history of Wrocław's architecture, is one of the most notable. The palace also hosts temporary exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events.
You will notice that the palace is surrounded by picturesque gardens, including the Słodowa Island and the Bastion Ceglarski Park. These green spaces offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city and provide a scenic setting for a leisurely stroll.
Plac Solny 28, 50-438 Wrocław, Poland
We are now coming upon Plac Solny, also known as Salt Square in English, a historic and picturesque square here located in the heart of Wrocław.
Plac Solny has a rich history dating back to the medieval period when it was used as a marketplace for salt and other goods. Salt was a valuable commodity at the time, and this square played a crucial role in the city's trade.
The square is surrounded by colorful, well-preserved historic townhouses with ornate facades and decorative elements. Many of these buildings were constructed in the Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles, adding to the square's visual appeal.
Today, Plac Solny is known for its flower market, where you can find a wide variety of fresh flowers and plants. This market adds a burst of color and liveliness to the square and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
On the northwest corner of the square is Movie Gate. This former German air-raid shelter interior houses Central Europe’s one and only museum that showcases costumes and props from celebrated film productions, made both in Poland and abroad. The Movie Gate’s highlights include the original bonnet from James Bond’s Aston Martin featured in Tomorrow Never Dies, the dress Eva Green wore to perform Vesper Lynd in Casino Royal, a section of the Death Star from the original space station in Star Wars, or the Roman soldier uniform Russell Crowe wore in Gladiator. Are you not entertained!?
Movie Gate is located in a perfectly preserved real shelter used during World War II - here you can see what the underground spaces hiding civilians and military people looked like. See the original inscriptions and fluorescence on the walls in the shelter under Plac Solny. MovieGate is also an exhibition that brings to life scenes straight from life in the bunker during the war.
Kiełbaśnicza 7, 50-108 Wrocław, Poland
St. Elizabeth's Church is among the most prominent and historic churches located in Wrocław. This Gothic-style church is one of the city's architectural gems and holds cultural and historical significance.
St. Elizabeth's Church was constructed in the 14th century. Its construction was part of the broader Gothic architectural movement that was flourishing in Wrocław and throughout Europe during this time.
The church is known for its striking Gothic architecture, characterized by soaring spires, pointed arches, and intricate stonework. The church's twin spires make it a prominent feature in Wrocław's Old Town. The two towers of St. Elizabeth's Church are not symmetrical. The southern tower is taller and leans slightly, giving the church a unique and distinctive appearance. This tilt is believed to have occurred during construction due to uneven settling of the foundation.
St. Elizabeth's Church is famous for its exquisite stained glass windows, which date back to different periods. These windows depict various religious scenes and are known for their vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship.
The church's interior is equally impressive, featuring a high vaulted ceiling, Gothic arches, and a sense of spaciousness and grandeur. The interior has been preserved and restored to retain its historic charm. The church's interior also features a stunning Baroque altar that was added in the 17th century. It contrasts with the predominantly Gothic architectural style of the church and is an exquisite example of the Baroque period.
St. Elizabeth's Church miraculously survived the heavy bombings during World War II that heavily damaged or destroyed many historic buildings in Wrocław. Its survival is often seen as a symbol of resilience and continuity.
Rynek 60, 50-116 Wrocław, Poland
As we approach Wroclaw Market Square, the main square of the city, you will notice architecture unique to the area known as "Kamieniczki.” This translates to "Little Townhouses" in English. These "kamieniczki" are charming and historic small townhouses or tenements that can be found throughout the city. Kamieniczki are characterized by their modest size, typically two to three stories high, and their architectural style often reflects the period during which they were built. Many of them date back to the medieval and Renaissance eras.
One of the most striking features of kamieniczki is their colorful and decorative facades. These facades often feature intricate details, including ornate stonework, decorative motifs, and architectural elements that showcase the craftsmanship of their time.
The Copperplate Printer's House (Jaś's tenement house) is located at the north-eastern exit from the Wrocław Market Square, at the intersection of Mikołaja and Odrzańska. It is connected by an arcade to the larger tenement house Małgosia. This is what the inhabitants of Wrocław called them after World War II because they were associated with children holding hands.
Both tenement houses are the former houses of altarists, i.e. the caretakers of the altar in today's church, Saint Elizabeth. They were built in the 15th century and tightly surrounded the church cemetery. After the war, the Hansel and Małgosia tenement houses were managed by the Society of Wrocław Lovers.
Yes, we are moving on from this nerve center of activity and culture here in Wroclaw, but don't worry. We will be returning at the end of the tour today and we’ll provide you all you need to know about the heart of the city.
Kurzy Targ 33, 50-103 Wrocław, Poland
If anyone is getting hungry, now may be a good time to pause the tour and sample of the cuisine here in Wroclaw. Let’s tell you what to look for and what may appeal to your tastebuds.
Pierogi are one of Poland's most iconic dishes. These dumplings can be filled with various ingredients, including potatoes, cheese, mushrooms, meat, and fruits like blueberries or strawberries. Pierogi are often served with sour cream and are a popular comfort food in Wrocław.
Bigos, known as "hunter's stew," is a hearty and flavorful dish made with sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and various types of meat, typically pork and sausage. It's often referred to as Poland's national dish.
Żurek, is a sour rye soup made with fermented rye flour and traditionally served with sausage and hard-boiled eggs. It's known for its unique, tangy flavor.
Gołąbki, are cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, often simmered in a tomato sauce. They are a comforting and filling dish.
Kartofle po żydowsku, is a dish consisting of potatoes sautéed with onions and often seasoned with paprika or other spices. It's a common side dish in Polish meals.
How about for your sweet tooth? Polish cheesecake, or sernik, is a popular dessert. It is made with creamy cheese, often quark or twaróg, and can be flavored with fruits, chocolate, or vanilla.
Another dessert is Kremówka, a delightful Polish pastry consisting of puff pastry layers filled with a creamy custard or whipped cream.
Szewska 49, 50-139 Wrocław, Poland
To our right is one of the many statues of Saint John of Nepomuk, which can be found throughout what was once Bohemia. As a saint he was credited with protecting against floods - which was indispensable in a city with as many waterways as Wrocław.
Born in the 14th century in Pomuk (later renamed Nepomuk), John was a Christian presbyter and confessor of Queen Sophia of Bavaria. As it turns out, listening to royals' confessions can be dangerous work, and the poor martyr met a grisly end in the Vltava River after refusing to divulge the queen's secrets to her husband, Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia.
Created by Johann Georg Urbansky, a closer look at this statue will reveal that two of the cherubs adorning the figure are bald rather than having a full head of (presumably golden) curls; according to legend, Urbansky's assistant, who was tasked with sculpting the last few cherub heads, decided to celebrate his hairless newborn son by sculpting the baby's likeness among the flock of angels. This was initially met with fury by his boss, but after viewing the adorable real-life baby boy, Urbansky's heart quickly softened and he decided to give a second cherub a buzz cut for better symmetry.
plac Uniwersytecki 16, 50-137 Wrocław, Poland
You’ll notice a truly astonishing site on the corner to your left. A Tenement house that still has bullet holes from World War Two. Wrocław, then part of Germany, was occupied by Nazi Germany from the beginning of the war in 1939 until 1945.
The city suffered heavy bombing raids by Allied forces, particularly in the later stages of the war. These bombings caused significant damage to the city and led to the destruction of many of its historic buildings.
In the final months of the war, Breslau became the site of a prolonged and brutal siege by the Soviet Red Army. The siege lasted from February 13, 1945, to May 6, 1945, and resulted in heavy casualties and the eventual capture of the city by Soviet forces.
This is one of the remaining structures from World War 2 that have stood the test of time. Graffiti on the wall is another staple of reminders of oppression throughout Wroclaw.
Grodzka 9, 50-137 Wrocław, Poland
To our left is the University of Wroclaw. You’ll see Leopoldina Hall, the main ceremonial hall of the university and one of its most iconic buildings. It is renowned for its Baroque architecture and is often used for official ceremonies, conferences, and cultural events.
Also housed on the main campus is The Mathematical Tower. This tower is part of the Mathematical Institute of the university and is one of the city's architectural landmarks. It offers panoramic views of Wrocław and houses exhibitions related to mathematics.
Follow your navigation as we head right along the banks of the Oder River.
St. Maciej Bridge, most św. Macieja 1, 50-137 Wrocław, Poland
Wroclaw is known for its numerous islands, many of which are situated in the Oder River and its canals. These islands contribute to the city's unique geography and offer a variety of attractions and historical significance.
Ahead and to our left is Dali Island, located near the Centennial Hall and often hosts events and exhibitions. It's a cultural and recreational area, featuring beautiful gardens and walking paths.
Above Dali is Słodowa Island, a central spot for leisure and relaxation. It features green spaces, playgrounds, and often hosts outdoor events, concerts, and cultural festivals. Słodowa is known for its vibrant nightlife. It's a popular destination for socializing and has numerous bars, food stalls, and cultural events, making it a hub for young people and students.
We will soon be crossing over into Piasek Island, known for its beautiful parks and promenades along the Oder River. It's a popular place for leisurely walks and offers stunning views of the city's architecture.
Wyspa Piaskowa is another island offering recreational opportunities and outdoor activities. It has a beach area along the Oder River where people can relax during the summer months.
As we stroll along its banks, let's talk about the Oder River. Known as the Odra in Polish, this waterway is one of the major rivers in Central Europe. It flows through several countries, including the Czech Republic and Germany. It originates in the Czech Republic and flows through western Poland and eastern Germany before emptying into the Baltic Sea. It's approximately 854 kilometers (531 miles) long.
The river has historically been a vital trade and transportation route in Central Europe. It has supported commerce and shipping for centuries, facilitating the movement of goods between different regions and countries.
The Oder River is known for experiencing occasional flooding, particularly during the spring when melting snow and heavy rains can lead to higher water levels. Efforts have been made to manage and control these floods to protect people and property in the river's basin.
Instytut Filologii Polskiej Uniwersytet Wrocławski, Grodzka 15, 50-140 Wrocław, Poland
We will now be crossing the Most Piaskowy bridge spanning the Oder River. It connects the Sand Island with the Tumski Island, where you can find the Wrocław Cathedral and other historical landmarks we will soon be visiting.
Most Piaskowy is one of the oldest bridges in Wrocław. It was originally built in the 13th century and has undergone multiple reconstructions and renovations over the centuries. The current structure features a Baroque-style design and has a distinctive appearance.
The bridge is made of stone and features several arches. It offers beautiful views of the Oder River and the surrounding cityscape. The bridge is also known for its decorative elements and statues. The bridge is adorned with twelve statues, each representing one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. The statues were added during the Baroque period, and they give the bridge a unique and religious character.
Katedralna 4, 50-328 Wrocław, Poland
We are making our way though Plac Kościelny, "Church Square" in English. Church Square is a It is known for its charming and well-preserved architecture, as well as its role as a hub for cultural and historical experiences.
The square takes its name from the Church of St. Adalbert, also known as St. Wojciech's Church. This historic church is a significant landmark and adds to the religious and cultural ambiance of the square.
In front of us stands another statue of Saint John of Nepomuk. Pronounced (Jan Nepomucen in Polish) who is a revered saint in the Roman Catholic Church, and this statue serves as a religious and historical monument.
Saint John of Nepomuk was a 14th-century Czech priest and confessor to the Queen of Bohemia. He is most well-known for refusing to divulge the queen's confessional secrets to King Wenceslaus IV, which ultimately led to his martyrdom.
The statue of Saint John of Nepomuk typically depicts him in traditional religious attire, holding a crucifix or a palm branch. These symbols represent his faith and martyrdom. The statue is a representation of his veneration as a martyr for the sacramental seal of confession.
Saint John of Nepomuk is a symbol of trust, secrecy, and the sanctity of the confessional. His canonization and veneration in the Catholic Church have made him a respected figure.
In some Catholic traditions, Saint John of Nepomuk is invoked for intercession in matters related to trust and confidentiality.
Plac Katedralny 16, 50-328 Wrocław, Poland
The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, known as "Archikatedra św. Jana Chrzciciela" in Polish, is one of the most significant religious and architectural landmarks in Wrocław, Poland. The Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Wrocław. It is a place of worship, religious ceremonies, and a pilgrimage site for Catholics in the region.
The cathedral's history dates back to the 10th century, making it one of the oldest buildings in Wrocław. Over the centuries, it has undergone various architectural changes and renovations, reflecting different styles. The cathedral's architectural style is predominantly Gothic, characterized by its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and large stained glass windows. The Gothic elements of the cathedral are particularly impressive.
The cathedral features two towers. The taller of the two, known as the Piast Tower, stands at approximately 97 meters (318 feet) and offers panoramic views of Wrocław and the surrounding area. The towers are adorned with intricate stonework.
The cathedral houses a collection of stunning stained glass windows, including the famous "Legends of St. Elizabeth" series, which depicts the life of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary. The cathedral has crypts beneath the main sanctuary, where several notable figures from Wrocław's history are interred.
The cathedral is also known for its beautiful organ, often referred to as the "Tumski Organ." It is considered one of the finest pipe organs in Poland and is renowned for its musical performances.
Plac Katedralny 11, 52-007 Wrocław, Poland
The arches you see ahead are part of The Congregation of St. Elizabeth Sisters, a Catholic religious order of nuns dedicated to the memory of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary. The Provincial House in Wrocław, Poland, serves as a significant location for the congregation.
Follow your navigation as we make our way back to the Oder, and cross back into Central Wroclaw on the Pokoju Bridge. Most Pokoju is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a striking sight and a popular subject for nighttime photography.
The name "Bridge of Peace" is symbolic, reflecting the hope for a peaceful and prosperous future for the city and its residents.
Urząd Wojewódzki (Muzeum Narodowe), 50-156 Wrocław, Poland
The building to our right is The National Museum in Wrocław, known as "Muzeum Narodowe we Wrocławiu" in Polish. It is one of the most prominent and comprehensive art and cultural museums in the city. Depending on what time of the year you are visiting, you will see different colors of the ivy growing on the building.
The museum's collections cover a wide range of artistic and cultural heritage, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, textiles, and historical artifacts. Notable collections include European paintings, Polish art, and a remarkable collection of glass.
The museum's European painting collection features works from various periods, including the Renaissance, Baroque, and Romantic eras. It includes paintings by artists such as Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, and Lucas Cranach the Elder.
The National Museum is also renowned for its extensive collection of Polish art, with works by celebrated Polish artists like Jan Matejko, Józef Chełmoński, and Stanisław Wyspiańsk
One of the famous paintings housed in the National Museum in Wrocław is "Portrait of a Young Man" by Albrecht Dürer, and is a remarkable example of his portraiture. This portrait exemplifies the Renaissance fascination with humanism and the individual. It is celebrated for its nuanced depiction of the subject's face, clothing, and the play of light and shadow.
Jana Ewangelisty Purkyniego 21/28, 50-156 Wrocław, Poland
We are making our way into Juliusza Słowackiego Park which has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. It was designed and established during a period when the creation of urban green spaces was a significant priority. The park is named after the famous Polish Romantic poet, and you’ll see a statue dedicated to him ahead.
You will also notice the statue dedicated to victims of the Katyn Massacre. The Lower Silesian Family of Katyn is a regional organization and initiative in Lower Silesia, Poland, dedicated to honoring and preserving the memory of the victims of the Katyn Massacre, a tragic event during World War II. This massacre involved the mass execution of thousands of Polish officers, intellectuals, and civilians by Soviet authorities in 1940.
425W+J5 Wrocław, Poland
Located within the park and to our right is The Panorama of the Battle of Racławice, a must-visit destination in Wrocław, offering a unique and immersive journey into Poland's past and a chance to appreciate the artistic and historical significance of this monumental painting.
The Panorama of the Battle of Racławice was created in 1893 by a team of artists, led by Jan Styka and Wojciech Kossak. The monumental painting depicts the Battle of Racławice, a significant conflict during the Kosciuszko Uprising of 1794, in which Polish forces fought against Russian troops.
The Panorama is not a traditional painting but a cycloramic artwork, a type of massive, 360-degree panoramic painting. It measures approximately 15 meters in height and 114 meters in circumference. Visitors stand on a central platform, and the panorama surrounds them, creating an immersive and realistic visual experience, allowing visitors to step into the historical scene and feel as though they are part of the battle.
Promenada Staromiejska, 50-001 Wrocław, Poland
From one form of architecture and design to another, we arrive at the The Architecture Museum in Wrocław, a prominent cultural institution in the city. The museum is housed in the former Bernardine Monastery, which dates back to the 14th century. This historical building adds to the museum's charm and offers a fitting setting for the study of architectural history.
Modernist architecture is prominent in Wroclaw and it emerged at the beginning of the 20th century, eventually gaining more popularity after the First World War, especially in the Interwar period.
At that time, Wroclaw wasn’t part of Poland, but was still a German city by the name of Breslau.
After the Second World War Wroclaw became part of a communist state, the People’s Republic of Poland, under a strong soviet influence.
Many modernist gems were built in Wroclaw during the 20th century with the Centennial Hall and the Silesian Insurgents' Monument being examples. While these structures are not located along our tour today, they would make for excellent visits another day.
al Słowackiego 2, 50-149 Wrocław, Poland
The Church and Monastery of St. Adalbert, is the structure in front of us.
The complex has a long and storied history. It was originally founded in the 11th century by the Bishop of Prague, St. Adalbert (Święty Wojciech in Polish), after whom the church and monastery are named. It is one of the oldest religious sites in Wrocław.
The church has undergone multiple architectural transformations over the centuries. It displays a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic elements, reflecting its long history of construction and renovation.
The Reformation in the 16th century brought a long decline of the Dominican convent. In addition to religion, national issues were also to play a role, as the Protestant patriciate of Wrocław was mainly German, and the monastery was still influenced by Polish. The church was often plundered, and in 1608 a mob burst into the interior, demolishing the furnishings.
During World War II, the church was badly damaged. The first stage of reconstruction took place in the years 1953 – 1955. In the years 1981 – 1982 stained glasses were installed, and the reconstruction was completed with the reconstruction of the helmet in forms modeled on Gothic.
Wita Stwosza 39, 50-149 Wrocław, Poland
We are nearing the end of our tour today. But no teary eyes just yet, we still have some great stuff to see! There are public bathrooms to your right, should you need to use the restroom before the final stretch of our journey.
In front of us is The Penitent Bridge, a footbridge between the two towers of Mary Magdalene church. This massive church was the second to be built on the left bank of the Odra River, after St. Adalbert's. During the Reformation it was taken over by the Protestants and was not returned to the Catholic Church until after WWII. Its most striking features are the 12th-century Romanesque portal that was moved here from the Benedictine Abbey - considered to be Wrocław's most valuable relic from that era - and of course the 'Penitents' Bridge' spanning the two soaring, yet stunted towers whose cupolas were never replaced after WWII.
You can climb the tower for thrilling views of the Old Town while traversing the open-air bridge 46m above ground.
By some accounts, the bridge was also used to identify medieval witches in a variation of the ‘trial by cold water’. Women accused of witchcraft would be forced to walk across the bridge (with no guard rail, naturally); those who lost balance and fell to their deaths would be exonerated, while those who made it across would be deemed witches and burned at the stake.
According to the legend, one could see the ghosts of young women, who, instead of taking care of their homes and children, preferred to party with men. As a penitence, they had to cross the bridge between the towers.
Also, see if you can spot the Witch Gnomes statue atop the bridge. As we saw earlier on Tumski island and elsewhere throughout the city, the dwarf statues are a fun and whimsical treasure trove of Wroclaw.
Let’s see if we can find a few more!
Here’s a clue, check around the front gate of the church.
Kurzy Targ 2, 50-148 Wrocław, Poland
Did you find it? Great! That was the dwarf on a motorcycle statue. There are a few more we will be passing as we make our way into Market Square.
Did you see the “dwarf drinking tea” statue, outside of Jolie Cafe? My, what sharp eyes you have.
Ok, as we enter Market Square, look down and to your right. That’s the collector dwarf. Pretty cool, huh?
The dwarf statues in Wroclaw come in various themes and styles, and they often reflect the character of the place they are located. If you have more time, consider going on a hunt to spot as many as you can.
Rynek 28, 50-065 Wrocław, Poland
Here we are at Market Square, the last stop on our tour, and a great place to finish up and take one final immersion into this whimsical city. We have a few places to check out here in the square, so we're not done just yet.
The Wroclaw Market Square dates back to the 13th century when it was established during the medieval period. It has served as the main marketplace and social center of the city for many centuries.
The square covers an area of approximately 3.8 hectares, making it one of the largest town squares in Europe. Its spacious layout is surrounded by beautifully preserved historic buildings.
The square is renowned for its stunning and colorful architecture. Many of the buildings surrounding the square feature a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicist.
The most notable building on the square is the Old Town Hall, an impressive example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The tower features an ornate astronomical clock, which is one of the main attractions of the building and is a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering and art. was built in the 16th century and showcases not only the time but also astronomical and astrological information, as well as figurines representing various aspects of life and mythology. The most distinctive feature is its impressive tower, which rises to a height of approximately 66 meters (216 feet).
Throughout its history, the Old Town Hall served as the administrative and political center of the city. It housed city offices, a courtroom, and a prison.
Today, the Old Town Hall houses the Wroclaw History Museum, which offers exhibitions about the history and culture of Wroclaw. Visitors can explore the museum's displays and enjoy the panoramic view of Wroclaw from the top of the tower.
On the left side of the Town Hall is The Aleksander Fredro Statue, a monument dedicated to Aleksander Fredro, a renowned Polish playwright and author. Fredro's writings are an integral part of Polish literary and theatrical traditions. Known for his comedic wit and humorous prose, his works, such as "Zemsta" (The Revenge) and "Pan Jowialski," are frequently performed on stage and adapted in various forms of media.
But wait, there's more!
Rynek 24, 50-101 Wrocław, Poland
And finally, beneath us is the Rynek Underground, an intriguing archaeological museum located beneath the Wroclaw Market Square. This unique museum offers visitors a chance to explore the historical and archaeological treasures buried beneath the city.
The subterranean excavation of the square began in 2005, after the discovery of various artifacts around Kraków’s famous Cloth Hall led to speculation about what else might be found below street level. What was discovered was a treasure trove of items and structural remnants that paint a vivid picture of everyday commercial life in Kraków over the past 700 years.
The fully-underground excavation uncovered not only the remnants of merchant stalls and various quotidian objects — such as weights, coins, clothing, and jewelry — but also preserved stretches of medieval thoroughfares, remnants of a settlement that was destroyed by raiding Tatars in 1241, centuries-old aqueducts, and a cemetery showcasing some of the peculiar burial practices of the 11th century.
Included in the historical cornucopia are displays depicting burial practices from 1,000 years ago, including the method for burying a suspected vampire. Long-established in Polish folklore, vampires were believed to only become creatures of the night after death.
Given the popularity of the museum and the fact that occupancy is limited to 300 at a time, visitors are advised to buy tickets in advance for a particular entry time.