Located in Central Poland, its capital city Warsaw is one of the most tempting attractions for tourists heading to Eastern and Central Europe. It’s not only the largest economic and political centre of Poland, but also a beautiful historic and cultural symbol. With dozens of old churches, palaces, and houses, Warsaw’s classic medieval beauty is beyond modern trade centres and shopping malls, blending within the city.
The Historic Centre of Warsaw - UNESCO World Heritage
After the vigorous destruction caused by the Nazis during the Warsaw Uprising in August 1944, Warsaw’s historic centre was reconstructed by its citizens with a five-year campaign. As a result, today’s exquisite Old Town was restored meticulously with its medieval-style Old Town, churches, palaces, and market-place.
In 2011, Warsaw Historic Centre’s reconstruction project, and its documentation have been recorded in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register. The Historic Centre comprises of two parts: existing structures before the damage of World War II, and buildings recreated, such as Sigismund’s Column, the Royal Castle, some of the Old Town’s houses, and churches. The Old Town Market Square (Rynek Starego Miasta) is one of the most important common points, where many important national celebrations are organized.
Watch Warsaw from above at the Castle Square (Plac Zamkowy)
Since 1596, the Polish capital moved from Krakow to Warsaw, and the Royal Castle was used as the seat of the former Polish King as well as the government. Entrance to the castle with a guided tour at a regular rate is approximately 6 USD.
Lying in front of the Royal Castle, Warsaw’s Castle Square is another popular meeting point for both tourists and locals. One of the best things to do here is to walk up to the top of St. Anne’s church tower to capture a panoramic view of the Square with its marvelous Sigismund’s Column. Or simply stop at a cafe on the square to spend time relaxing and watching the world go by.
Walking though the New Town (Nowe Miasto)
Founded between the 14th and 18th century, New Town functioned as a city itself with its own administration system, town hall, and church. A couple of remarkable buildings in this area are Sapieha Palace, and the Maria Sklodowska-Curie Museum.
Maria Sklodowska-Curie’s exhibition is dedicated to her for being the first Nobel Prize female winner in history, and the only female that has won in two different fields of natural science: physics, and chemistry. Regular entrance to the museum is around 3 USD.
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
There’s more to discover in Warsaw!
As small as the historic centre of Warsaw may sound, there is a lot in Warsaw to discover. Alluring is the breath-taking Monument to the Warsaw Uprising Fighters. This monument presents thousands of heroes who sacrificed themselves for their homeland during the 1944 Warsaw Uprising.
Also, don’t forget to stop by the Anne Frank House to gain further insight into European history during World War II. Her diary recorded during this period of time is an incredible piece of history.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to