Krakow: Jewel in the Heart of Poland
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Reuniting with Poland
Moving to Canada when I was very young I had not seen much of my native country of Poland. Although I had learned about it from my friends and family, it was not the same as actually seeing it. When an opportunity arose to spend a gap year abroad I thought that I should spend it reconnecting with my heritage. With a budget in mind and my objectives mapped out, my destination was Krakow.
On the train from Warsaw I was looking through the window, taking in as much as I could. When I finally arrived in Krakow I was immediately struck by the combination of old and new buildings and customs. Each structure seemed to add something new to the landscape, tracing its lineage through to its past.
Where I Stayed
I grabbed a taxi and set out to the center of the city to find a local to stay with for a few days. Not knowing what to expect I soon discovered most of the hotel prices were between $94 CAD and $142 CAD a night; however, walking down Skawiska Road I spotted The Secret Garden Hostel that started at $30 CAD including Breakfast. This brilliant little hostel had very friendly staff and I felt like they could easily accommodate any international traveler.
Sightseeing
Waking up early I set off to explore Krakow and went to Wawel Castle located in the center of the city. The fortress founded in the 11th century developed over five centuries, holding art and jewelry dating over a millennium of development. With a great courtyard and many different churches and catacombs to explore, the castle ticket cost of around $8 CAD is well worth it.
I turned my attention to the inner parts of the city and immediately went to the Rynek Glowny or main market. Organized around 14th and 16th century buildings, the area is perhaps the most recognized square in Europe. This grand area has a very unique trumpet player that appears from the highest tower of St Mary’s Church. Playing the Hejnal Mariacki, the medieval call announced the opening and closing of the gates. During the Tatar invasion in 1241, the trumpeter was shot, abruptly cutting his tune. To this day if you come on the hour, every hour, you can hear the trumpeter play his song and stop as though a Tartar arrow struck him.
With so many different things to do, I almost forgot to feed myself. Right off the market square I found the Aperitif. The cozy restaurant served an assortment of native foods, with prices reasonably around the $8-15 CAD mark. The Roasted Chicken with sheep’s cheese was a true delicacy, and I would certainly venture back if I had the chance. With a fabulous view of the historical Wawel Royal castle, the restaurant had a great Polish pedigree and a fantastic place to end my trip.
