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www.poland-tourism.pl Poland Polish Tourist Organisation Table of Contents A A ZN SK ZY W C O SO N U S U S BRZEŚĆ Kodeń Wadowice Wieliczka Kalwaria Zebrzydowska P O S S Nowy Wiśnicz G Ó S K T Biłgoraj D N A K A I N A O M I E R R P A C Biecz Wapienne Bóbrka Sękowa Nowy Sącz K K C Z A E TAT R Z A Ń S K I PN O O Rabka GORCZAŃSKI PN Krasiczyn Krosno Łysa Polana V V A A K K I I Hunting grounds Angling grounds Former Nazi concentration camps Castles Palaces Open-air ethnographic museums A E N Hrebenne Korczowa LVOV LWÓW Medyka Sanok Lesko MAGURSKI Iwonicz Zdrój K Łopuszna PN Krościenko Szczawnica R P A Wysowa Ustrzyki A Rymanów Zdrój Dębno Zdrój Piwniczna Dolne T Niedzica Krynica Zdrój Chyżne Barwinek Polańczyk PIENIŃSKI Muszyna J. Solińskie Chochołów Zakopane Niedzica PN Y BABIOGÓRSKI PN Krasnobród Bełżec Horyniec Zdrój Przemyśl I Zosin Jarosław Łańcut RZESZÓW A Zamość ROZTOCZAŃSKI PN O Leżajsk S N L Szczebrzeszyn Z I E O L T Kolbuszowa TARNÓW E B Sa n O K Solec Zdrój Z R Baranów Sandomierski Busko Zdrój Zalipie R U Sandomierz Koprzywnica Szydłów L Opatów A A I K E N A KI Y A Ł L YS Ż R A RZ Y Dorohusk Chełm R - M P O O K LUBLIN Łęczna K Nałęczów Wisła ŚWIĘTOKRZYSKI PN O KIELCE E POLESKI PN Kazimierz Dolny Y T E Kozłówka Puławy K i Włodawa U A N Y Ż Wieprz BIESZCZADZKI PN A U dr a A Y Y N Ny nä sha mn R M R R A E A Kozienice R IĘ CRACOW Tyniec Szczyrk Sucha Beskidzka L W Michałów O A L Ś Tokarnia SK SK S Ż W W S BREST Terespol Biała Podlaska SIEDLECKA W A N Y Bartków OJCOWSKI PN BIELSKO-BIAŁA Zwardoń Y Pieskowa Skała Oświęcim Korbielów Kukuryki Janów Podl. Radzyń Podl. Szydłowiec O Health resorts Sea beaches Water sports centres Winter sports centres Equestrian centres Hippodromes Jasnowice L Paradyż A A I I CC Ustroń Istebna L G E a lic Jędrzejów R C KATOWICE Goczałkowice Zdrój Cieszyn Leszna Grn. Legend: UNESCO World Heritage sites UNESCO World Biosphere reserves Airports Main roads Border crossings International ports K K L A W S BRNO L Siedlce RADOM K Ą B YN O L B YŻ Ę Pszczyna OSTRAVA OSTRAWA Marklowice Grn. U U Sulejów H Ś P Racibórz Pietraszyn Chałupki P Z Ż E Pietrowice Gubczyckie C Y GLIWICE N A Konradów Boboszów E - Pyrzowice S T O Połowce Grabarka Drohiczyn s ła D Ó CZĘSTOCHOWA Y R Y WROCŁAW W A WYSOCZYZNA Kołbiel Konstancin-Jeziorna Radziejowice P A Długopole Zdrój R WARSAW Żelazowa Wola Wieluń W HH Węgrów Liw K C E I W O Z A Ó K M KAMPINOSKI PN A K Piotrków Tryb. I E R Z E B N I C K E A Modlin G S Jelenia Góra T A Środa Śl. Ą K A PRAGUE PRAGA S W Trzebnica Z Lubiąż LEGNICA Ś Hajnówka Ciechanowiec Sławatycze Ł R A BIAŁOWIESKI PN Bu g Treblinka Lipce Reymontowskie Antonin Bolków Świeradów Zdrój U Szczawno Zdrój Brzeg Szklarska Porajów Od Poręba KARKONOSKI Książ Strzelin ra PN D WAŁBRZYCH Krzeszów Jedlina Zdrój OPOLE Przerzeczyn Zdrój E Golińsk PN GÓR Wambierzyce STOŁOWYCH Góra Św. Anny T Paczków Kudowa Zdrój Moszna Kłodzko Paczków Duszniki Y Kudowa Zdrój Polanica Głuchołazy Głogówek Lądek Zdrój Zdrój CC N Bobrowniki NARWIAŃSKI PN A Milicz Ó N L Lwówek Śl. Legnickie Pole Krzewina Zawidów S Czerniawa Zdrój Sieniawka Miłoszów I Nieborów ŁÓDŹ G I Z Czerwińsk n. Wisłą Sochaczew Uniejów Z Z I Łowicz Tum Kalisz L I Zgorzelec EE Oporów Żagań Jędzychowice ZZ Krośniewice Koło Konin Gołuchów Rydzyna W Y Przewóz N PŁOCK BIAŁYSTOK Choroszcz Opinogóra C i W N Łęknica Włocławek Licheń Ląd IE Pułtusk Łąck A Gostyń Leszno Otyń Wieniec Zdrój Kruszwica Racot Przemęt Łomża D O N Żary P O L S K WIELKOPOLSKI PN O K Wolsztyn Drzonków Ochla Olszyna Obra dra ZIELONA GÓRA Gubin A C Kruszyniany Supraśl Kiermusy Tykocin O N ra Ob A I Na P A N rew M Z I N Sierpc Gniezno POZNAŃ L E Inowrocław Biskupin Sieraków I Ciechocinek Wenecja Lednogóra W I E L K O R Z E P O Ośno Lubuskie O J E Z I E L S Słubice P Międzyrzecz K I Łagów E Świecko Gościkowo Kórnik W Golub-Dobrzyń a Wisł R Warta Myszyniec Nowogród W Łękno GORZÓW WLKP. PN UJŚCIE WARTY Kostrzyn Grunwald I E Noteć Osinów Dln. Kuźnica Olsztynek Nidzica TORUŃ GRODNO BIEBRZAŃSKI PN Ruciane-Nida Brodnica BYDGOSZCZ Augustów Ełk Z Piła DRAWIEŃSKI PN E Z R E I Z A M S K R U I E I Krajnik Dln. Z E J O P Chełmno Koronowo Tuczno Giżycko N G Drawno O CC Iława Grudziądz Mrągowo Mikołajki OLSZTYN Ostróda Czaplinek Stargard Szcz. Kołbacz Ogrodniki Wigry Sejny WIGIERSKI PN Morąg Kwidzyn Fojutowo Puńsk Suwałki B Człuchów Gniew Gierłoż Św. Lipka Malbork Pelplin PN „BORY TUCHOLSKIE” Chojnice Gołdap Węgorzewo Barciany Lidzbark Warmiński ELBLĄG Odry Gołdap Bezledy Frombork Kadyny B Łobez SZCZECIN Rosówek Gryfino Szczecinek Sztutowo Kościerzyna Biały Bór Połczyn Zdrój Goleniów Lubieszyn Bytów Kamień Pomorski WOLIŃSKI PN Kołbaskowo KOSZALIN GDAŃSK Kartuzy Sławno R RU U S S I AA S S I Gronowo A Świnoujście Z B P O E Sopot AI A Świnoujście Międzyzdroje Mrzeżyno Niechorze R E I W O SŁUPSK L LI I T T H H U U AN A I Budzisko N KALININGRAD Hel GDYNIA I E K S Ox elö su nd , Rønn e en hav Kołobrzeg Ż S Ń KOWNO KOVNO H ben Darłowo Mielno Ł Łeba SŁOWIŃSKI PN Ustka Władysławowo Z Ko A B T I C B A L C A E S I T Żarnowiec k ro n a L A E S 1 5 6 10 18 22 25 26 28 29 30 31 Bring your Family Beauty For your Health and astle Like a King in His C utdoors The Great Polish O es Not Only Conferenc Hearty Cooking K a r ls almö Ystad, M Poland is Closer Th an you Think Poles – Citizens of t he World The Treasure Trove of Culture Polish Cities In the Gardens of N ature Active Rest Museums Folklore centres Old churches, Orthodox churches Old mosques, synagogues Religious sanctuaries Waterways Polish Tourist Organisation Poland is Closer Th www.poland-tourism.pl an yisoCu n yion Thah u Tk hink and loserT Pol Poland is a garden of nature and a treasure trove of cultural riches. A democracy located in the middle of Europe, inhabited by a friendly, hospitable people building a modern economy, yet dearly cherishing their heritage. Every year, Poland is visited by millions of tourists. They leave with wonderful memories, wanting to come back for more. Here, everyone can find something interesting. The modern leisure infrastructure provides for recreation of the highest standard. Museums, modern art galleries and concert halls on a par with swimming pools, equestrian clubs, discos and night clubs: all is here to satisfy even the most demanding guests. Visitors can feel truly welcome in Poland and experience the remarkable traditional Polish hospitality. Poland’s natural environment makes possible active rest and recreation at any time of the year: in many regions of Poland natural sites have been preserved in their primeval state, rarely encountered in other parts of Europe. Poland’s climate ensures favourable conditions for entertainment and leisure activities throughout the year. On the Amber Coast of the Baltic Sea and Masuria, the Land of a Thousand Lakes, one can find old forests, rivers, hills and amidst them, paths, bridleways and trails to be enjoyed by walkers, water sports enthusiasts, cyclists and horse riders. We guarantee nobody will leave Poland disappointed; the adventure hungry will get oodles of adrenaline, those who fancy peace and tranquillity will be able to unwind at Poland’s natural sites, and those looking for entertainment will experience the fun of a lifetime.The Poles like to entertain guests at their homes; such friendly encounters, conversations and laughs will surely remain in your memory for a long time. Polish Tourist Organisation Ma s u r i a n L a k e l a n d e Tatras: the highest Polish mountain rang C a stl e S qu a r e i n Warsaw hTihninkk Poland is Closer Thr aTnhaynouyoT u Poland is close Always in the European Home For the last thousand years, Poland was the place where cultures from the east and west of Europe would come in contact. Poles frequently had to defend their independence and to befriend many different countries. Therefore, it is easy to understand how Poland’s national character was forged, one that drives the Poles to staunchly defend their freedom but always to show great tolerance for others. Helping Others Considering the history of many other nations, one can see that Poles have continuously played important roles throughout history: Tadeusz Kościuszko and Kazimierz Pułaski joined the fight for the independence of the United States of America in the 18th century. Ernest Malinowski helped build a railway line in the Peruvian Andes and Bronisław Piłsudski is highly respected in Japan for his ethnographic works. It is not widely known that Joseph Conrad, the famed conscience of world literature, was born and educated in Poland before he set off on his quest for adventure at sea. During the Second World War, the allied forces were reinforced by Polish airmen who played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain. Polish mathematicians helped break the Enigma code, giving the Allies access to the secrets of the Third Reich. Poland in the 21st century As a full member of the European Union and the NATO Alliance, Poland plays an active part in the process of European integration. A stable democracy with a robust economy and monetary system – this is Poland in the third millennium. One thousand years ago, the Polish prince Boleslaw the Brave and the German emperor Otto III met in Gniezno to sign a treaty, the first ever international agreement in this corner of Europe. Bridge on the Vistula in Warsaw Gdańsk Poznań Masurian Lakeland Warsaw Wrocław Tatra Mountains Long Water G d ynia , t he D d a ń sk Ma l t a T h e a t r i c a l F e s t i v a l in Po z n a ń Warsaw cit y center n a y h o u T T r e h s i n o l k C s i d n a l o P nd Always in Europe f r on Pola brzeż e) in G t (D ł ug ie Po ar gate – Muse Pom or z a Fr i Poz na ń O l d B r e w e r y in u m S hip Old and modern architecture in Warsaw Szczytnicki Park in Wrocł aw Wang Chapel in K arpacz Górny Je w i s h C u l t u r e O r t h o d o x p r o ce s s i o n i n G r a ba r k a Fe st iva l in C r a The Age of Toleraniocues Tolerance try of Relig Coun The Age of Tolerance Poland has never been a scene of religious wars. Even though the majority of Poles are Roman–Catholics, all Poles have always peacefully shared their country with the followers of other religions. Protestants have lived in Poland for hundreds of years and contributed greatly to the nation’s culture. A good testimony to such peaceful coexistence is the memorial to Martin Luther in Bielsko-Biała or the cemetery at Wschowa, with tombstones of Lutherans and Calvinists. Today, many Evangelical centres are in southern and western Poland. In the 13th century, Jews came to live in Poland. Until the Second World War they constituted the largest Jewish community in Europe. From such families as Rubinstein, Natanson, Kronenberg and Epstein came many eminent Jewish personalities in the fields of art, science and economy. The wealth of the Jewish culture and tradition in Poland can be seen from Tykocin and Warsaw to Leżajsk and Lublin, from Cracow and Lesko to Bobowa. One of the major religious communities in Poland are the followers of the Eastern Orthodox faith, for centuries living in south-eastern Poland. Tartars have lived in Poland for the last 600 years, preserving their cultural autonomy and Muslim faith, enjoying all rights and privileges as Polish subjects. According to the old Polish tradition, on arrival a welcome guest is offered bread and salt. Bread signifies trust and salt – endurance. In old times, salt was as expensive as gold and in great demand, like friendship... C o l l e g i u m Ma i u s i n C r a cow cow Gdańsk Grabarka Warsaw Karpacz Cracow s n o e f z t i h t i e W C – o r s l e d l o P o W r l e d h t f o s n e z i t Poles – Ci He Stopped the Sun A Pilgrim of Love Without Violence Music for Everyone Four hundred years ago, Nicolaus Copernicus scientifically proved that the Earth moves around the Sun and not vice-versa. This breakthrough, known as the Copernican Revolution, ushered in a new era of modern astronomy. It was the Solidarity leader, Lech Wałęsa, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize (in 1983), who started the emancipation of Central Europe. In 1989 Poland regained independence in a non-violent way. Scenes of political opponents sitting together at the “Round Table” showed the world how to solve conflicts in a peaceful way, at home and across borders. Father Karol Wojtyła was an experienced trekker and a nature lover who covered on foot even the most difficult of trails. After being elected the Pope, he became a pilgrim of love and hope. He was respected and listened to throughout the whole world. Communicating with millions was a feature characteristic of the pontificate of Pope John Paul II. The Polish composer Frederick Chopin, born at Żelazowa Wola near Warsaw, is one of the world’s greatest musical talents ever. The spiritual value of his work seems to cast a spell on the hearts of people across all continents. How this is possible is a mystery that can be only explained by Chopin’s musical genius. amo ść Town Hall in Z The Treasure Trove of Cultucrees Pala Teutonic Knights’ Castle in Malbork Town Hall in Toruń Castles and The doorway to Poland’s culture is symbolically and literally marked by the sculptured bronze door in the Gniezno Cathedral, the repository of relics dating back to the origins of the Polish state in the 10th century A.D. P r o ce ssi on in K a l wa r i a Z e b r z y d o w sk a The Heritage of All Mankind The city of Toruń, the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, has preserved its medieval urban cityscape with defensive walls, towers and skyrocketing spires of churches. Zamość allures visitors with the beauty of its Renaissance architecture and the well–preserved sections of its formidable fortifications. Malbork boasts the world’s largest Gothic castle, once the seat of the Teutonic Order. Visitors will be impressed by the enormous size of the castle complex. The beauty of the amber collection displayed in the castle art gallery is breathtaking. Sunlit Castles and Palaces … On the hilltop overlooking the town of Nowy Wiśnicz sits a sunbathed castle surrounded by fortifications, a rare example of the palazzo in fortezza style. Sunlit castles captivate visitors to Baranów Sandomierski and Krasiczyn with beautiful architecture and splendid interiors. Łańcut, once the stately home of Polish aristocratic families, continues to be a meeting place of the aristocracy of the operatic world at the annual festivals held there. The largest collection of antique carriages on display in the Łańcut coach house draws crowds from all over Europe. Castle in B a ra n ów S a n domierski Malbork Toruń Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Warsaw Zamość Wilanów Palace e o v f C o r u T l t u e r r e u s a e r T e h T r i s t u A o t T t r r actions e h t O d n a s e t i S O C S NE Święta Lipk U Żelazowa Wola a … and Baroque Contrasts The Royal Palace at Wilanów in Warsaw, the Jesuit Monastery at Święta Lipka in Masuria, and the Old Basilica at Bardo in Lower Silesia are all very different and very beautiful examples of the baroque style in Poland. Baroque artists were often inspired by the theme of memento mori. One of them used three thousand human sculls to decorate the walls of the chapel at Czermna near Kudowa Zdrój! Incredible but true! To the Manor Born Manor houses, the family seats of the Polish gentry, have always been furnished with objects of art and rare books. Intellectual aspirations of their residents have left an indelible mark on Polish culture. One such house is the small country house at Żelazowa Wola where Frederick Chopin was born. The composer’s famous polonaises and mazurkas were named after the old Polish dances played for the opening and closing of society balls. Leonardo da Vinci in Cracow When visiting the Czartoryski Museum in Cracow, observe how crowds always gather at one place. They all come to admire the portrait of Lady with the Ermine by Leonardo da Vinci. a Teutonic Knights’ C Polish Sites on the UNESCO World’s Cultural Heritage List: • Old Towns in Cracow, Toruń, Warsaw and Zamość • Salt Mine at Wieliczka • Evangelical Churches of Peace at Jawor and Świdnica • Unique monastic complex at Kalwaria Zebrzydowska • Former Nazi concentration camp of Auschwitz • Gothic castle of the Teutonic Knights at Malbork • Białowieża Forest (World’s Natural Heritage list) • Wooden Churches of the southern Małopolska region • Mużakowski/Muskauer Landscape Park in Łęknica s t l e i n Ma l b o r k C h u r ch int e r i or s in B l i z n e O r t h od o x sa n c t u a r y i n G r a ba The Treasure Trove of Cultularned Po Jasna Góra Monaster y in Częstochowa Religious Traditions in Churches Carved in Wood Ł owicz , t he C or pu s C h r i st i P r o ce ssi on Roman–Catholic and Eastern Orthodox wooden churches are found in the regions of Małopolska and Podkarpacie (Carpathian Foothills) in many villages and little towns. They are unique in rural wooden architecture and enchant visitors with their graceful forms and beautiful interior decorations. Pilgrim’s Progress Roman-Catholic sanctuaries are the Poland’s landmarks. The majority of pilgrims flock to the Pauline Monastery on Jasna Góra in Częstochowa. Here is the blessed icon of the Black Madonna, venerated both in Poland and abroad. The followers of other faiths have their sanctuaries in many places around the country: the Eastern Orthodox at Grabarka, the Protestants at Karpacz, Wisła and Cieszyn, and the Muslims at Bohoniki and Kruszyniany. Colourful and Mysterious On Palm Sunday preceding Easter, an unusual procession is held in Łyse, a village in the Kurpie region, and in Lipnica Murowana near Bochnia. Some 25 metre-tall Easter “palms” soar up over the crowd. Made of wicker and wood, decorated with paper flowers, these palms are slender and surprisingly solid. Corpus Christi processions also represent the ancient religious and folk customs. Especially famous are those held in Łowicz. Women’s costumes glitter with colours of the four seasons and the procession looks like a parade of field flowers. Church of Peace interio rs in Świdnica r ka Warsaw Grabarka Łowicz Binarowa, Blizne, Częstochowa Dębno, Haczów, Lipnica Murowana, Wieliczka Sękowa Era z m B ar ą cz’s chamber S i e l e c cha mbe r Janowice chamber reasure Trove of Culture The T liczka ie W n i e n i M t l a S Wieliczka – a ManMade Masterpiece of Nature By the acts of nature which produced the salt rock and salt crystals, and by the deeds of man who carved them into galleries, chapels, sculptures and chandeliers, this gem of world culture has come about. The Salt Mine of Wieliczka also houses a unique museum of mining technology used as early as in the 13th century. Blessed Kinga’s Cha The Wieliczka Salt Mine in Brief: • Age: over 800 years old • Length of galleries: over 300 kilometres • Tourist route: over 2,000 metres • Visitors: 700,000 per year, from all continents • Unique features: underground lakes, chambers and pits, chapels and sculptures carved in salt rock, wooden bridges and passages • Highlights: the Chapel of the Blessed Kinga, the patron of salt miners, hewn out by hand from solid salt • Underground town: on several levels at depths ranging from 60 to 100 metres. It includes a sanatorium, post office, cinema, restaurant, souvenir shop and concert halls pel in Wieliczka B l u e S k y sc r ape r C it y ce n t r e a t n Mo d e r n a r c h i t e c t u r e ight PoW liasrhsawC–ittiheesCity with an Attitude The capital of Poland is a meeting place for politicians, economists and artists of all nationalities. Warsaw’s 1.7 million inhabitants are known for their sense of humour and hard working habits. It took them 15 years and the help of all Poles to totally rebuild their beloved city, of which 84% was razed to the ground during the Second World War. The scenic Old Town and its Market Square with mansardroofed houses attract artists and tourists. Here, wine-cellars and elegant restaurants are always very busy, but there’s always a table waiting for new guests. Warsaw’s St John’s Cathedral is a national Pantheon. The Royal Castle was the residence of the last Polish king. The most elegant houses of Warsaw align the Royal Way, which links the three royal residences: the Royal Castle, the Łazienki Palace and Park, and the Wilanów Palace. Among the numerous neo–classical buildings located in the Royal Łazienki Park, the most impressive is the Palace upon the Water, from all sides surrounded by water. A particularly beautiful landmark is the Frederic Chopin Statue. Here, every Sunday in summer, Chopin’s music is played by renowned artists. The Wilanów Palace is an outstanding example of the baroque style in Poland. It once belonged to King Jan III Sobieski, remembered for his victory over the Turks in the Battle of Vienna in 1683. Like other great metropolia of Europe, Warsaw offers a variety of entertainment: theatre performances, cabaret shows, film festivals as well as concerts by famous opera soloists, pop–music stars and classical music performers. Poland hosts one of the world’s most prestigious cultural events organised every five years – the Chopin International Piano Competition, as well as the International Festival of Contemporary Music Warsaw Autumn, and the Mozart Festival. 10 Old Town Square Warsaw R oyal S qu a r e B r i s t o l Ho t e l T h e Ł a z i e n k i R o y a l Pa r k o l P i s h C i t i e s i t t u t d A e n th a i w y t i C e h t – w a s War Old Town uare Old Town Sq e in t h e Ł a z O pe n - a ir t h e a t r i e n k i Pa r k Wilanów Palace 11 B a r b i ca n ler h, the bugle cal St Mary’s Churc St . Mar y’s high alter by Wit Stwosz PCorlaicsoh s e i t i C w – the Treasury of World Heritage Built by many generations of artists living in the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau times, fortunate to survive unscathed the ravages of war, Cracow never fails to attract and amaze millions of tourists. It enchants them with its original historical monuments and works of art. It brings crowds to a variety of concerts and festivals, not to mention the magical atmosphere of its cafés and jazz clubs. Overlooking the city is Wawel Hill, the beating heart of Poland. There proudly stands the Renaissance Royal Castle, housing a‑collection of countless objects of art and the famo us tapestries. The Wawel Cathedral, where Polish kings were crowned and buried, is also the national Pantheon – the burial place for many eminent artists and national leaders. Not far from Wawel Hill is Kazimierz, the area once inhabited by the largest Jewish community in Europe. Today, Kazimierz hosts concerts and exhibitions that display Jewish traditions. Each year in Kazimierz there is a Jewish Culture Festival, featuring artists from all over the world. The many cafés, exotic and quaint, are never empty. In one of them, traditional Jewish dishes are served on Singer sewing machine table tops. The Main Market Square – the largest European society salon – occupies the central part of the Cracow Old Town. Here, languages from all over the world can be heard. The Cracovian hejnał, an hourly bugle call, is played from the tower of St Mary’s Church. The Gothic church, rather austere on the outside, has a very richly ornamented interior with a masterpiece of Gothic art: the high altar carved in wood by Wit Stwosz. In the very centre of the Market Square is the Cloth Hall, the oldest commercial centre in Poland. Here, you can buy souvenirs and folk art products. On the upper floor, you can visit the Gallery of 19th century Polish Painting. 12 Cloth Hall Lajkonik in the traditiona l Cracovian colorful pag eant Warsaw Cracow C a m e l ot r e st a u r a n t St Mar y’s C h u r ch y r u s a e r T e h t – w o Crac Royal Castle on the Wawel Hill o l P i s h C i t i e s H d e l r r i t o a g e of W The Market Square frequently hosts various parades and performances. On New Year’s Eve thousands of people come here to have a good time and dance under the stars! There are plenty of cafés and restaurants around the Market Square, each in a different style. There are also theatres and art galleries. Basements built in Gothic style create a very special ambience, suitable for jazz clubs and cabarets. Before Christmas, the annual Szopka (Nativity scenes) competition and exhibition is held on the main square. This tradition known as the Cracovian Szopka contest dates back to the time of St Francis. Only five minutes’ walk separates the Main Market Square from the Collegium Maius, the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University established in 1364. Both the University and the Old Town are surrounded by the green Planty, a park arranged on the site of the former defensive city walls, with memorials, statues and garden sculptures. There are annual events held in Cracow: the Beethoven Music Festival, Festival of Short–Films, Festival of Street Theatre and the Music in Old Cracow International Festival. They all are highly regarded internationally and have the aura of Cracovian style about them. But what makes the Cracovian style? To find out, visit the Jama Michalika café with its Art Nouveau decorations, Parisian ambience, the smells of the Viennese breakfasts and the typical Cracovian discussions about art, poetry and women… The Cracovian hejnał breaks off abruptly in midbar. Legend links it to the Tatar invasions, when the watchman who spotted the enemy sounded the alarm. A Tatar arrow pierced his throat in mid-phrase. The tune has stayed like this thereafter. Today the hejnał marks the hours for the revellers and those in pensive mood. It sounds best at dawn, when the head is “…dazzled with wine and eternity...” St Mar y’s Church 13 P i e r i n S op ot B oa t r a ce s on t h Long Waterf ront e Mo t ł a w a Polish GCdiatńiseks– the City of Freedom Long Waterf ront (Dł u gie Pobrzeż e) in G Gdańsk is as old as Poland itself. Located on the sea coast of the Baltic and at the mouth of the Vistula, Gdańsk was the Polish gateway to the sea, a thriving, wealthy city, an important Hanseatic port and a Free City. In the 20th century, Gdańsk was the scene of the first battle of the Second World War. Like the heroes of ancient Thermopylae, the heroic defenders of Westerplatte wrote a chapter in the history of this majestic city. Being so prosperous, the city of Gdańsk was often besieged by mercenary armies and had to defend its sovereignty. It is no wonder that here in Gdańsk, the Solidarity movement struggling for freedom was born. For centuries, ships from all over the world have moored at the Gdańsk waterfront. Here, today, tourists can board pleasure boats to take them on a cruise along the Baltic coast. The Old Town, also known as the Main Town, developed along ulica Długa (Long Street) and Długi Targ (Long Market). Ending at the Golden and Green Gates, these streets are lined with many historical monuments, art galleries and jewellers’ workshops. Here, one finds the Gothic Town Hall and the Artus Court where the town’s patricians played host to royals. The nearby Golden House symbolises the affluence of the local burghers. The Neptune Fountain is a meeting point popular with tourists and lovers alike. It is here that the majority of Gdańsk summer art festivals are held, Gdańsk , the Sumo contest in Dł ugi as well as the famous Dominican Fair which attracts many visTarg itors from all over the world. A real masterpiece of architecture is the little ulica Mariacka (St Mary’s Street) with its narrow houses and spacious terraces under which are located galleries of amber jewellery. The Oliwa Cathedral is not to be missed: its showpiece is a magnificent organ noted for its fine tone and baroque ornamentation using mechanised figures. Sopot and Gdynia are the closest neighbouring cities near Gdańsk. Sopot is an international health resort and a cultural centre. People come here for rest, recreation and entertainment in style. Many stroll along the water on the 500 metre-long local pier. Gdynia is the host to Poland’s‑leading film festival. Moored on its waterfront are two famous museum ships: the Second World War destroyer Błyskawica and the three-masted tall ship Dar Pomorza. The skyline of the Main Town is dominated by St Mary’s Church built in the Gothic style. It is believed to be the largest ancient brick church in the world. It can easily accommodate 25,000 people! 14 d a ń sk Gdańsk Warsaw n Gd Town Hall i ańsk C r o ok e d h o u s e i n S op ot O l d Crane o l P i s h C i t i e s m o d ree F f o y t i C e h t – k s ń Gda Old Motł awa River and Long Waterf ront Ar t u s C our t n G d a ń sk S t r e et t heat r e s i Gdańsk, Dł ugi Targ at night 15 International Poznań Fair „ Ma l t a - S k i ” R e T h e Mo n i u s z k o G r a n d T h e a t e r c r e a t i on a n d S PoliPsohznCańit-itehesSeat of the First Polish Rulers Poznań is a city stooped in artistic and trade traditions, with many schools of higher education, museums and avant–garde theatres. It is also the site of the Poznań International Trade Fair. On the island of Ostrów Tumski, washed by the Warta waters, stands a 10th century cathedral containing the tombstones of ancient Polish rulers. The Old Town Square is dominated by the town hall, a magnificent Renaissance building. Not far from the Market Square stands the former Jesuit church, considered to be the most beautiful Baroque building in Poland. Many famous people were hosted by the nearby Jesuit College, including Napoleon Bonaparte and Frederick Chopin, who once gave a recital here. The Raczyński Palace houses the oldest public library in Poland. The Działyński Palace contains the collections from the Kórnik Library, including the priceless 1543 edition of Nicolaus Copernicus’ De revolutionibus orbium coelestium (On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres). Next to the Adam Mickiewicz University stands the Monument to the Victims of June 1956 Events, commemorating one of the first mass protests against the communist regime in Poland. Poznań’s Malta park is a large water sports centre. Regattas on Lake Malta attract many rowers and motorboat helmsmen. The park hosts the second largest International Theatre Festival in Europe (after Edinburgh). The Wieniawski International Violin Festival and the Poznań boys’ choirs are well-known to music lovers worldwide. Every year, the Poznań International Trade Fair management organises several dozen events, including art fairs, building constructions, computer systems, electronics and agricultural products. St Martin’s Fair is a very special event during which all sorts of things can be bought at reduced price. In Poznań, a reputable trading town, your bargaining skills will be well appreciated. Every day at noon, the little doors on the town hall tower open and two goats appear, butting horns 12 times. According to the legend, they once saved the town hall from fire. With time, they have become the symbol of the city and of its witty, stubborn and hardworking citizens. 16 z Town Hall in Po Ma r k e t S q uare na ń por t s C e nt r e Poznań Warsaw Ma r k e t S q u a r e all C e nt e nar y H Warsaw Wrocław Racławice Panorama o l i P s h C i t i e s t o n f i N o a t P i o g n s eetin Wrocław – the M In Wrocław, artistic masterpieces of all times, decadent and cosmopolitan architecture and the spirit of a small town go hand in hand, right in the very centre of Europe. Meandering through the city, the River Oder is spanned by one hundred bridges and dotted with a dozen islands. One of them is known as Ostrów Tumski. The earliest foundations of Wrocław were erected there over 1000 years ago. Throughout centuries, the city belonged to Bohemia, Austria, Hungary, Germany and Poland. Protestant, RomanCatholic and Jewish cemeteries are evidence of the cities patched history. Wrocław is an important centre of higher learning and culture, a city teeming with youthful vigour and the home to many foreign visitors. The Old Town Market Square once was at the junction of old European trading routes. Its architecture reflects the patchwork of architectural styles from different epochs. The monumental Gothic Town Hall is now a busy cultural centre. The people of Wrocław know about the good life. The Market Square is lined with many excellent restaurants, including the highly reputed Świdnicka where beer always tastes better! Among many cultural events organised in Wrocław, the most highly acclaimed and internationally well-known is the Wratislavia Cantans International Oratorio & Cantata Festival. The Aula Leopoldinum at the Wrocław University, with its elaborate stucco works, sculptures, paintings and frescoes, is the most magnificent Baroque interior in the whole of the city. ł aw Town Hall in Wroc Wrocław’s most often visited attraction is the Racławice Panorama, a monumental canvas which is 15 m high, 114 m long and covers the area of 1,710 sq m. The painting shows a battle scene from the time of the 18th century Polish-Russian wars. Hung on the internal walls of the rotunda in the form of an unbroken circle, it encircles the viewers from all sides, effectively placing them in the very midst of the battle. A three-dimensional visual experience created almost one hundred years ago! A u l a L e op ol d i n u m 17 G a m e s on t h e be a ch C l if f y s e a s h o r e A m b e r – g ol d o f t h e B a l t i c S e a e r u t a In the GardeSneas, oLfakN es and Forests Poland’s gardens of Nature include the amber beaches of the Baltic Sea, lakes and rivers, mountains and forests. Here, you can find rest, relaxation, adventure and diverse tourist attractions. Biał owież a National Along the Amber Coast Międzyzdroje, Kołobrzeg and Sopot are health resorts of international standing. They are widely known for their attractive beaches and entertainment. You can’t fail to have an interesting time there: Morning: the fresh fragrance of the nearby pine forests. Peace and quiet broken only by the murmur of the sea and the rustle of seagulls’ wings. It feels so good to start the day with a swim in the sea. Noon: beach time. Later, many afternoon attractions, such as a game of golf or a ride on horse back or still another sports activity. There are endless ways to relax here. Evening: Entertainment by the best performers and DJs. Many events last till the wee hours of the morning. The Mystifying Amber Many amber–diggers try their luck on the seashore of the Gulf of Gdańsk. This Baltic gold was known and valued by ancient Romans. It still is a most desirable object appreciated for its beauty and mysterious qualities. Amber originates from the resin of pine trees which has become solid over thousands of years. Polished and set in silver, amber adds sparkle to even most glamorous beauty. Considered to be a source of good energy, it is often worn for health reasons. 18 Jurata Pa r k Gdańsk Masuria Białowieża Warsaw C a m a l d ol e s e m on a st e r y in Wigr y R e st on t h e wa t e r f r on t K a y a k t r ip ens of Nature d r a G e h t n I s and Forests Sea, Lake Masuria – the Land of a Thousand Lakes There are too many attractions in Masuria for anyone to be able to enjoy all of them during one holiday: thousands of lakes and water routes, yacht marinas, taverns for sailors, friendly fishing villages and equestrian clubs. Crystal-pure waters promise a pleasant swimming experience, and the wealth of fish species tempt anglers. Most lakes in this region are small and medium size, hidden deep in the forest, with high banks or waterfronts overgrown with rushes and teeming with various aquatic bird species. Some of them, like Lakes Śniardwy and Mamry, are very large. Others, like Lake Wigry, have fantastic shapes. Still others, like the small Lake Jaczno, enchant visitors with unique colour of their waters (malachite green). Not far from the Masurian lakes is the Suwałki Region Lakeland with its smaller but equally charming lakes and picturesque water–courses. This region is ideal for those who seek peace and quiet. Here you can still find uninhabited islands, perhaps try your hand at the life experienced by Robinson Crusoe! R e st on t h e m o u n t a i Man is Only a Guest Here The Białowieża Forest – transcends the boundaries of Poland … and time. Trees, plants and animals live here as they lived for thousands of years: amongst unspoilt, thick backwoods, unchartered marshes and pristine forest meadows. Man is only a guest here, but the forest readily reveals its secrets, especially to those who enter on foot. You may have a chance to hear the “tooting” of the black grouse or see their magnificent plumage, watch their masterly choreographed pairing dance, a spectacle to be long remembered. The Białowieża Forest is also a natural habitat of the bison. This “king of the forest” has the size and weight to match the name: over 1 thousand kilograms. A lot of weight to put on by eating grass only... For those who prefer riding there are other options: biking, horse-drawn buggies or a narrow-gauge railway, a particularly attraction for children. n t r a il Polish forests are accessibly to everyone. Many well–marked tourist trails lead to the most attractive sites, and numerous camping grounds can accommodate hikers who wish to put up their tent, set a bonfire and roast a piece of Polish sausage. 19 K a r k o n o s z e R a n g e i n t h e S u d e t y Mo u n t a i n s Highlanders G r a z in g sh e e p e r u t a In the Gardens ofPN olish Mountains The Secrets of the Mountains and Time The Karkonosze Range is a part of the Sudety Mountains and the enchanted land of Lower Silesia. From the top of Mt Śnieżka (1,602 m), overlooking the Polish side of the Sudety Mountains, enfolds a splendid view of the natural and manmade wonders of this land. The network of signposted tourist trails (2,500 km) is well developed, still there are many secret places which will delight explorers and seekers of treasures, especially collectors of valuable minerals. The Bear’s Cave has more than 3 km of labyrinthine corridors and chambers, marble mines as well as many places untrodden by humans. The Karkonosze Range is 350 million years old. It is difficult to imagine long ago they came to be – it is certainly easier to wander about these mountains, trying to unravel the secrets of time… Tatras & the Podhale Region A panoramic view of the granite Tatras can be seen from the Podhale, Orawa and Spisz regions. You can think that the foothills are trying to climb up to the Tatra high peaks. The Podhale region is dotted with small villages. Many have wooden churches and all of them have houses built in the unique highlander’s style, typical of the local taste drawing inspiration from nature. Everyone’s fascination is Zakopane, a town sitting on the borderline between the high mountain meadows and the rocky Tatra summits. Zakopane attracts mountain trekkers, skiers, artists and people who love good time. It’s only a stone’s throw from Zakopane to the High Tatras. And from the Tatras – as old highlanders say – nothing can be too far away! The tradition of sheep grazing is still alive in the Kościeliska and Chochołowska Valleys. The white flocks are guarded by shepherd dogs. A junior shepherd is called juhas, a senior one – baca. Góralki (highlanders’ women) tend cows and górale (highlanders) tend sheep. Why is that? No one knows. 20 L a k e Mo r s k i e O k o i n the Tatras Biebrza Warsaw Karkonosze Tatras Ma r s h e s i n t all e y he B iebr z a V Photo-Sa Ho r s e - r i d i n g P h o t o - S a fa r i the Gardens of Nature n I fari Remote and Friendly The Bieszczady are among the least populated mountainous areas in Europe. People live here in but a few villages and small towns. Settlements are separated from each other by vast areas of wilderness: gently undulating mountains and high mountain meadows know as połoniny. Lake Solina brings a change in scenery – a large sailing centre, with tourist trails leading hikers through beech forests and hilltops, past lonely Eastern Orthodox wooden churches and small country cemeteries shaded by linden trees. Today, the mountains welcome nature lovers and tourists who often ride along the Bieszczady on horseback. Take the Biebrza home A magic landscape is presented by the Biebrza flood waters and its multicolour marshy meadows. This land can be visited by raft, kayak or on foot. To the eyes of bird-watchers and all nature lovers, the colours of the setting sun reflected in the streams change the Biebrza marshes into an extraordinary luminous theatre. Visitors should not forget to have their cameras ready: these unforgettable sights are worth taking home! Photo–Safaris Enthusiasts of photography set out on a “photo safari” to the forest very early in the morning. There, properly camouflaged, they wait long hours stalking wild game. Every trick in the book is used to get a good shot! Lake Sławskie near Zielona Góra has such crystal-clear water that the whole underwater world can be seen, even if the bottom of the lake is 12 metres deep. Cormorants build nests on one of the islands. One roll of camera film will certainly not be sufficient to capture the magnificence of these beautiful and rare birds in action. Best Photo Opportunities: • Słowiński National Park – shifting dunes, 50 metres high • Mouth of the Warta River joining the Oder – rare migratory birds, aquatic species • Biebrza Marshes – picturesque landscape of marshes and fascinating flora • Bieszczady Mountains – mating season of red deer in the autumn and packs of wolves in the winter • Białowieża Forest – bisons and Europe’s oldest trees • Tatras – high mountain landscapes, chamois, mountain goats B i s on s in t h e B i a ł o w i e ż a For e st P h o t o - S a fa r i 21 Ice-boating B ik e r s on t r a il Mo u n t a i n - c l i m b i n g Active Rest Sailing and Kayaking On the Trail in the Great Masurian Lakes As the majority of them are interconnected by a network of rivers and canals, the Great Masurian Lakes can be travelled across without ever leaving one’s kayak or sailing boat. This water route, Europe’s longest, is known as the Trail of the Great Lakes. It can be entered from the marinas of Mikołajki, Ruciane–Nida or Węgorzewo. This excursion requires a well–trained team, good boat and fair winds. Only then you can navigate to heart’s content. This trip on the lakes may become more like an adventure at sea, as it takes a 100-kilometre cruise in continuously changing landscapes, rivers and lakes, reaching at the end the largest Polish lake: Lake Śniardwy. Poland’s deepest lake, Lake Hańcza (108 m) issues forth a river, which, together with the Augustów Canal, creates an 80- kilometre long route with more than 18 locks and running amidst the most beautiful natural scenery. A cruise along the Elbląg Canal can be very exciting. Built some 150 years ago, this 62-kilometre long canal is still admired for the sophisticated technology and perfect workmanship. It has two locks and five original slipways which help carry heavy boats across dry land on rail-mounted trolleys to bridge the gap between waterways on different levels. At one point the difference in height is as much as 25 metres. After an enjoyable cruise, stop for a rest in one of many Masuria country inns and sample the European white fish, which, according to the locals, tastes better than anywhere else in Europe. Sail Boats Faster Than the Wind Ice-boats, winter sailing vessels, fly over the smooth, glittering, white surface of the frozen Masuria lakes. They look like a sleigh with a sail attached and can develop speeds up to 100 kph, if the wind is right. What an exciting adventure it is! Imagine a sail boat moving faster than a motor boat! The difference in water levels between both ends of the Elbląg Canal is up to a hundred metres. Cruising along this canal you may even feel like going up a waterfall! 22 E l bl ą g C a n a l Marina in the Masuria n Lakeland Elbląg Canal Masuria Warsaw Pa r a - gl i d e r o v e r t h e s e a g Water -skiin Masuria On Water, Warsaw Pieniny Mountains o r ge D u n a je c G in t h e Pi e nin Ho r s e r i d e r s o n t h e b e a c h A c t i v e R e s t o r n o H , e o k r sebac by Bi k y Mo u n t a i n s The Dunajec Gorges A highlanders’ raft is made of five wooden dug-outs joined together. This is how tourists travel down the rapids of the Dunajec River, admiring the most picturesque sights of the Pieniny Mountains. Every now and then the river traverses sections of breathtaking beauty. The lime peaks looming overhead soar up to 300 metres. The Dunajec meanders and it often becomes difficult to follow the direction of the watercourse. Fortunately, the highlander helmsmen know how to manage their fragile rafts, taking them safely to the final destination. The landing stage is reached after three hours of a great, unforgettable adventure. Everyone Loves Horses B r e a k fa s t o n t h e g r a ss Horse-back riding can be enjoyed in all regions of the country. Equestrian centres, riding clubs and stud farms offer various breeds, from ponies and well formed horses known as hucuły, to the best Arab thoroughbreds. At the Książ castle in Lower Silesia, a stud-farm is located, famous for its excellent horses as well as for special training programmes for children. Take a lesson in the castle riding school or enjoy a buggy ride in the environs. You can’t enjoy more a ride on the beach, on a lake waterfront or down in a valley in the Bieszczady Mountains. Pure joy and exhilaration! Always with the Wind Attractive bicycle trails are marked out along the Oder River from Szczecin to Wrocław. These lead through dense forests, along rivers and down the streets of many small old towns: always with the wind. Those who would rather go against the wind will find many opportunities in the Tatras and the Karkonosze Mountains. There, the biking trails are so steep that they better be “climbed” on a bicycle rather than on foot. The final section of the European bicycle route R–1 runs via Poland to Russia. It begins in Calais (France) and continues through Holland and Germany and Poland. 23 Bear’s Cave Pa r a d i s e f o r s k i B ea ch e nt e r t a in m e nt ers Bring your FaGm y l i s ame for Everyone In the Underground Labyrinths S l e d d og s Such names as Złoty Stok (Golden Slope) and Góry Złote (Golden Mountians) will stir the imagination of gold prospectors. Abandoned for many years, the ancient gold mines never cease to attract throngs of people. The weekend prospectors hope that there maybe just something left behind. The Kościeliska Valley in the Tatras boasts several dozen caves. A few are open for tourists, but the majority are reserved for experienced potholers. In the Lubusz Region near Świebodzin, there is an underground fortress from the time of the Second World War. Approximately thirty kilometres of tunnels connect huge underground shelters, bunkers, artillery stations and other military facilities. Today, around 30 thousand bats, representing 12 species, live in this wartime subterranean complex. Narrow and labyrinthine corridors of a former chalk mine can be visited in Chełm near Lublin. Those who are brave and curious enough can enjoy a new and exciting world located deep beneath the town’s busy streets. Sled Dogs For sled racing, competitors depend upon the dogs’ endurance and the strength in their own legs. Every year, the best dogs come to the Młociny Wood near Warsaw and to Zawoja in the Żywiec Beskid region to take part in an international race. Spectators can admire Alaskan malamutes and Siberian huskies, and meet their handlers, who need to be fast enough to keep up with the pace of their dogs. Caravanning Million of campers travel across the world in their caravans. They come from all continents and form a great international caravanning family. Special camp grounds for caravanning enthusiasts are located in the most attractive regions of Poland. You Can See More Under Water... Many beginners as well as experienced divers are attracted by the lake at Bytów near Gdańsk. Here, you can go deep under the water to the depth of 33 meters. More difficult and deeper descents are possible in the nearby coastal waters of the Baltic Sea, but they are only accessible to more experienced divers. 24 Campsite Bytów Warsaw Złoty Stok Chełm Zawoja Tatras S k i l if t G ol f pl a y e r S l e d g in g ch u t e o u y r g F n a i m r B i l y s e ter Gam in W d n a r e m m u S Fun and Games for All Family holidays on a farm are fun combined with new experience. There is always an enjoyable and useful job for everyone. You can learn the secret recipes of the local cuisine, drive a tractor or mow grass with a scythe, a task that one has to be very careful doing since a scythe is as sharp as a razor blade. And those who still believe that milk comes from supermarkets, they should try to milk a cow. Summer Games There is an old proverb which says that music brings people closer to each other. This is best illustrated at an event which takes place in Dobre Miasto in the Masuria region, a venue for families from all over the world to revel in playing music! Another wonderful family event is the World Championship For Gold Prospectors held at Złotoryja, where streets “are paved with gold”. Other explorers, who like the thrill of exploring for amber, “the gold of the Baltic Sea”, can meet at the Amber Prospectors World Championship at Stegna near Gdańsk. Winter Games The time for kulig or winter sleighing cavalcades comes when the snow starts crunching under your shoes. The snowy adventure begins when all small sleighs become attached to a large sleigh drawn by a pair of horses. A kulig with torches, lighting a road lined with mountain spruces, is a life-lasting experience. During the highlanders’ carnival at Bukowina Tatrzańska, you can enjoy kumoterki, skiing races with competitors being towed by horses, and a number of other attractions which bring thousands of spectators and many brave competitors. The annual Piast Race in the Karkonosze gathers a few thousand ski racing enthusiasts of all ages: the youngest ones are 3 years old and the oldest participants are over 70. G ol f c o u r s e 25 K u d o w a Z d r ó j S pa G r a d u a t i on t o w Water chute e r s in C i e ch oc i y t u a e B For yCouultirvaH d n a h t l a e ting Health and Good Looks The Health Valley B a l t ic S ea bea ch The health resorts located in the Kłodzko Valley have very special atmospheres created by their mild and invigorating microclimates, strongly mineralised water springs and scenic landscapes. The spas of Kudowa Zdrój, Polanica Zdrój and Duszniki Zdrój are filled with bathers in summer and in winter. The pure and unpolluted air of these spas, situated 400 metres above sea level, will work wonders for your health. The treatment is even more effective when aided by the beautiful music played during the annual Chopin Festivals at Duszniki. Entertainment is Good for you Krynica Zdrój is very popular with theatre and opera artists. Here, you can appreciate the special nature of a health resort in which entertainment and treatment go hand in hand. Mud baths and treatment massages in the morning, a leisurely walk to the pump house at noon where you can drink mineral waters of different tastes and properties, and in the evening, a concert or cabaret show. Entertainment is also good for your health! Biking alon Recharged and Rejuvenated – Simply a New Life 26 g the beach nek Ciechocinek Warsaw Kudowa Zdrój E x e r c i s i n g i n t h e s w i m m i n g p o ol K r y n i ca Z d r ó j S pa th Waiting for e r apy The Benef a h n t l d a B e e H a u r t u y o y r o F e its of Water Car Book for a New Life On the Sea Coast and Underground You should book a place at one of Poland’s “beauty farms” before calories start weighing down on you. Many will be willing to come despite the “pitiless” instructors who make patients work out hard or “heartless” doctors who refuse them even the tiniest dessert! It may sound strange but nonetheless all those “tormented” patients leave happy and smiling. Like those who come here for plastic surgery. All year round, bathers arrive at health resorts located on the Amber Coast of the Baltic Sea. They can book for high quality medical treatment in modern and comfortable sanatoriums. Kołobrzeg is a place well-known for treating motoric problems. Your health will further improve after an invigorating walk on the beaches and a refreshing breeze of iodine rich sea air. In the famous Wieliczka Salt Mine, the “sea breeze” still lingers on, one hundred metres below ground, thanks to the unique microclimate in the mine chambers. The iodine rich air in the underground sanatorium is good for your health and well-being. Therapeutic treatment ol In the swimming po Businessman’s rest Under water 27 Knights’ tournament C oa ch h o u se in G ol u b - D ob r z y ń Ł a ń c ut Like a King inKHniigshtClyaTsrtaldeitions Book your next holiday in an old Polish castle and find out how the kings “lived happily ever after”. C a s t l e i n Mo s z n a To the Last Drop of Sweat A weekend in a medieval castle can be more fun for those who do not make haste. Before the feast commences, the troubadours will chant their songs. But take your time, first watch the jousts, as a spectator or even join in as a participant. You may be surprised, but ever more visitors are ready to try their hand at this sport. During the famous tournaments at the Golub-Dobrzyń castle, knights in heavy armour exchange sword blows… to the last drop of sweat. There is always a pretty lady in the audience who knows how to reward the most chivalrous of competitors. A Holiday with Ghosts Although the palace at Moszna near Opole has 99 turrets, the breadth of architectural styles in which it was built is not so extensive. A fantastic flower carved in stone stands amidst the flower beds. Azaleas and rhododendrons are in full bloom, Vivaldi’s music sounds in the background. The stud farm nearby was built in one, albeit Mauritanian style. The ghosts are, well - gone! People say they got completely lost among all those 99 turrets. Revellers, Watch this Space! Have you ever considered a New Year party in a palace, wearing a period costume, enjoying that special night like none other? You might like to know that in Niepołomice near Cracow there is a fine Renaissance royal castle... Just Think! A New Year Party in a Royal Castle... in Poland! 28 Castle in K siąż Golub-Dobrzyń Warsaw Książ Moszna Łańcut i Villa Koliba n Z a k opa n e Variety Hu n t i n g p a l a c e i n t e r i o r s i n P r o m n i c e D a n c in g highl a n d e r s at Polish Outdoors e r G e h T of Choice Intricate Patterns Barefoot on Morning Dew Folk artists get really busy in the autumn. They carve figures of saints in wood, embellish furniture, paint on glass, embroider tablecloths and make delicate laces. The beautiful work of lacemakers from Koniakowa and Bobowa is admired worldwide. Is it really true that lace-making is not difficult to learn? The best way of enjoying the break of day is to take a barefooted walk across a flowery meadow. Dew-covered, cool grass under the feet and sun rays warming the face – this is the way to start a beautiful day! Variety of Choice The many activities to be enjoyed outdoors include horseback riding, fishing and watching wildlife in its natural environment. Why not volunteer to help out in farm chores, or simply sit under a pear-tree and listen to the silence of the countryside? Stars Shining Bright A camp fire barbecue dinner under the light of glittering stars, frogs croaking, owls hooting … A taste of real life, one step closer to nature... R e st in The Highlanders’ Song The Beskidy Culture Week never fails to attract huge crowds. Many little towns and villages in the region of Silesian Beskid stage folk carnival shows, crafts fairs and dancing workshops. The winter highlanders’ carnival in Bukowina Tatrzańska is a most colourful and enjoyable experience for all. Do not miss the specialities of the local cuisine. Bon appétit! Four Seasons of the Year – Four Ways to Discover the Taste of Life de g af ter a ri Knights’ tournament in Gniew 29 C o n fe r e n c e a t E X P O X X I P ol i s h b u f fe t Pa łac K ra sków Hotel Not Only ConLfeet’rs eMneceteisn Poland Poland is an ideal place for the organisation of all sorts of conferences and attractive incentive programmes. Business people, especially those participating in incentive meetings, will certainly feel comfortable in an environment equipped with the latest facilities and surrounded by the aura of traditional Polish hospitality. Everyone, who seeks exceptional, unique and unconventional conditions for the organisation of a business meeting will be completely satisfied with facilities in Poland. Professional assistance in the organisation of such meetings is provided by experienced Polish companies. C o n fe r e n c e r o o m i n t h Useful and Enjoyable Guests who cannot rest away from work should consider one of the conference centres located in stately homes. The special ambience of these fascinating interiors always adds to better business planning and new, exciting projects. International Deals The majestic palace at Baranów Sandomierski houses a modern conference centre equipped with state of the art facilities. Baroque interiors designed by Italian masters, a French style garden, music concerts and Old Polish cuisine make the venue a very special event. There is hardly a more pleasing environment to negotiate important international deals. Time to Rest Conference centres have all the necessary facilities for business use: Internet, well-equipped rooms, professional staff and exquisite cuisine. After work, time to relax. Who wants to play what? Poland - an excellent choice For every season and every time of day! 30 Conference room e Ps z c z y n a C a stl e Warsaw Krasków Pszczyna Ż u r e k - P ol i sh so u r so up Pi e r o g i s – d u m p l i n g s a n o i t i d a r T h s i l o P Enjoy Pa pa l c r e a m - ca k e t r y a C e o o H k i n g s e h s i lD Entering a Polish home, whether you are an old friend or a stranger, you will be greeted with warm hospitality and a sumptuous meal. “Guest in the home, God in the home”, as the old Polish saying goes. Even seeing what’s on the menu can really make your mouth water. For centuries the Polish kitchen has been the arena for competing influences from France and Italy, while it also borrowed extensively from more exotic tables: Tartar, Armenian, Lithuanian, Cossack, Hungarian and Jewish. The traditional Polish cuisine combines the refined and elegant tastes introduced to Poland centuries ago by the French court of Henri de Valois – the first elected Polish king, with the wild, mysterious flavours of the Lithuanian forests, the sweet aroma of the dishes served for the Jewish Sabbath supper, and the fierce, rare taste of the sanguineous steak Tartare – originally made by the horse riders of Genghis Khan who used to place a slice of raw beef under the saddle for extra tenderness. Locally made dishes specific to different parts of Poland will also spoil you for choice. Fresh water fish is the favourite dish in the north of Poland where lakes are in abundance; from the sandy plains of Mazovia in central Poland comes żurek – a sour rye soup, and the Eastern belt is know for the world famous pierogi. Wielkopolska in Western Poland will treat you to aromatic duck dishes; Suwalszczyzna in the north-east tip of Poland offers the best potato dishes and Podhale at the foot of the Tatra Mountains is famous for kwaśnica – sauerkraut soup and oscypek – a sheep’s milk smoked cheese. Wherever you go, you can enjoy delicacies that for centuries have been made of produce harvested in the forests, fields, meadows, lakes and rivers of Poland. hr Table covered for C Any experienced Polish chef will tell you the real Polish cuisine is incomplete without cereals, fish, crayfish, venison and fruits of the forest. To better understand why Polish delicacies taste so good you should also know that they are typically made of organic produce prepared by natural methods, cooked in the traditional home-made style without artificial ingredients. The best chefs pass from generation to generation the ancient recipes for pancakes made of turnip cabbage, lobster butter, pickled wild hawthorn fruit for decorating venison... The traditional Polish cookery books are full of recipes using ingredients that strangers will find most exotic. Sour cabbage and cucumber, cereals, dried mushroom, curdled milk and sour rye are but a few unusual ingredients to be savoured. But above all, cooking the Polish way also means putting your heart into it. i st m a s E ve d inn e r 31 Practical information Republic of Poland Area: 312,000 sq km. Location: Central Europe. Poland borders on Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, and Russia. Its northern border – 500 km long – runs along the Baltic Sea coast. Population: 38,000,000. Flag: White and red. Official language: Polish. Capital city: Warsaw. Other major cities: Łódź, Cracow, Wrocław, Poznań, Gdańsk, Szczecin, Katowice, Lublin. Climate: Temperate, the average temperature in July is 19°C (67°F), but there are many summer days when temperatures rise to 30°C (86°F). The best time of the year for practising winter sports is between January and March. Public holidays and work-free days The free days are Sundays, Saturdays, and the following holidays: New Year’s Day (Jan. 1st), the Easter (Easter Sunday and Monday are moveable holidays), Labour Day (May 1st), the anniversary of the Constitution of May Third (May 3rd), Corpus Christi (Thursday, movable feast), Feast of the Assumption (Aug. 15th), All Saint’s Day (Nov. 1st), National Independence Day (Nov. 11th), Christmas Holidays (Dec. 25th and 26th). Where to stay? All hotels are classified and their categories range from inexpensive to luxurious. • Rooms can be booked by telephone or Internet: www.discover-poland.pl, www.hotelsinpoland.com, www.polhotels.com, www.hotelspoland.com, www.polhotel.pl, www.warsawshotel.com, www.visit.pl, www.orbisonline.pl, www.pph.com.pl. • Many historic and old buildings (palaces, castles, manors, mills) were adapted for tourist purposes – tel. +(48-22) 433 60 30, www.leisure-heritage.com. • Booking of rural B&B accommodations: tel. +(48-52) 398 14 34, mobile +(48-602) 459 137, www.agritourism.pl, [email protected]. • Youth hostels: tel. +(48-22) 849 81 28, fax 849 83 54, www.ptsm.pl. • Camping: tel./fax +(48-22) 810 60 50, www.pfcc.info. • Polish Tourist Country Lovers’ Association: www.pttk.pl. Payment Money can best be changed at banks or exchange counters. Credit cards are accepted in shops, travel offices, airlines agencies, fuel stations, etc. There is no time limit on the use of credit cards – they can be used round the clock. Loss of a credit card should be reported: tel. +(48-22) 515 31 50 or 515 30 00 (open 24 hrs). The Polish currency is the zloty (PLN) divided into 100 groszy. Coins in circulation: 1, 2, 5 zlotys and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 groszy. Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 zlotys. Customs regulations Customs rules and procedures are similar to those prevailing in the majority of EU countries. Detailed information is available from the Ministry of Finance, tel. +(48-22) 694 31 94, www.mf.gov.pl/sluzba_celna. 32 Air Several airports operate in Poland in the following cities: Warsaw, Cracow, Gdańsk, Katowice, Łodź, Poznań, Rzeszów, Szczecin, Wrocław and Bydgoszcz. LOT Polish Airlines is Poland’s national carrier. In order to find necessary information, all travellers planning to come to Poland and move around the country by air should visit the LOT website: www.lot.com. In addtition, several other carriers, including budget airlines such as Centralwings – www.centralwings.com, Easy Jet – www.easyjet. com, Germanwings – www.germanwings.com, Sky Europe – www.skyeurope.com, WizzAir – www.wizzair.com, Ryanair – www.ryanair.com, Norwegian – www.norwegian.no. Train Poland has a well-developed rail network. Major Polish cities are interconnected by Intercity express trains running between European cities. The national railway network is administered and serviced by the Polish State Railways (PKP). All necessary information can be found on the PKP website: www.pkp.pl. Bus Any place in Poland can be easily reached by an extensive network of national and local roads. Coach services are operated by the state and private bus companies throughout the country. Taxi Taxi stands are marked with the TAXI sign. Taxis can best be booked by phone. Higher rates are charged for travel out of city limits, on Sundays and holidays; a special night fare is applied between 10 pm and 6 am. Traffic regulations They are compatible with the rules in the EU countries. The relevant speed limits on Polish roads are: 50 km/h during daytime and 60 km/h from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. for all vehicles in built-up areas; 90 km/h on lane roads; 110 km/h on expressways; 130 km/h on motorways; Between October and February headlights must be switched on at all times while driving. Useful telephone numbers The nationwide toll-free 24 hour emergency phone numbers include: • Ambulance 999 • Fire Brigade 998 • Police 997 • Mobile Phone Holders Assistance 112 • Tourists can use the following emergency number in operation during the whole summer season: 0-800 200 300, +(48-608) 599 999. General Partner of the Polish Tourist Organisation Orbis Hotel Group in Poland: Sofitel, Novotel, Mercure, Ibis, Orbis Hotels and Etap (from 2006) Infoline: tel. +(48) 502 805 805, www.orbis.pl Booking: www.orbisonline.pl B r a n c h e s o f t h e Po l i s h To u r i s t O r g a n i s a t i o n A b r o a d Moscow Stockholm Amsterdam London Berlin Warsaw Paris Brussels Vienna Budapest New York Madrid Rome Tokyo • AUSTRIA • Vienna tel. +(43-1) 524 71 91 12, fax 524 71 91 20 www.poleninfo.at, [email protected] • BELGIUM • Brussels tel. +(32-2) 740 06 20, fax 742 37 35 www.polska-be.com [email protected] • FRANCE • Paris tel. +(33-1) 42 44 19 00, fax 42 97 52 25 www.tourisme.pologne.net [email protected] • GERMANY • Berlin tel. +(49-30) 21 00 920, fax 21 00 92 14 www.polen-info.de, [email protected] • GREAT BRITAIN • London tel. +(44-0) 8700 67 50 10, 8700 67 50 12 fax 8700 67 50 11 www.visitpoland.org, [email protected] • HOLLAND • Amsterdam tel. +(31-20) 625 35 70, fax 623 09 29 www.poleninfo.info, [email protected] GB • HUNGARY • Budapest tel. +(36-1) 269 78 09, fax 269 78 10 www.polska-tourist.info.hu, [email protected] • ITALY • Rome tel. +(39-06) 482 70 60, fax 481 75 69 www.polonia.it, [email protected] • JAPAN • Tokyo tel. +(81-3) 53 23 85 08, fax 53 23 67 51 www.polandkanko.org, [email protected] • RUSSIA • Moscow tel. +(7-495) 510 62 10, fax 510 62 11 www.visitpoland.ru, [email protected] • SPAIN • Madrid tel. +(34-91) 541 48 08, fax 541 34 23 www.visitapolonia.org, [email protected] • SWEDEN • Stockholm tel. +(46-8) 21 60 75, 21 81 45, fax 21 04 65 www.tourpol.com, [email protected] • USA • New York tel. +(1-201) 420 99 10, fax 584 91 53 www.polandtour.org, [email protected] 2005 Publisher: Polska Organizacja Turystyczna / Polish Tourist Organisation 00-928 Warszawa, ul. Chałubińskiego 4/6, tel. +48-22 630 17 36, fax +48-22 630 17 42 e-mail: [email protected], www.pot.gov.pl Editor: Wydawnictwo Sowa – www.sowa.pl; Graphic layout: K. Mosiej Text: A.Pacuła; Translation: J. K. Milencki; Photographs: A. Marecik, W. Panów, Z. Panów, A. Olej-Kobus / K. Kobus – TravelPhoto, D. Zaród – Photoagency.com.pl, Z. Szmidt, A. Winiarz, Z. Żyburtowicz, “East News”, “Agencja Gazeta”, Wydawnictwo Kamera, POT Archives Published with the funds provided by the Ministry of Economy. Polish Tourist Organisation Let’s meet in Poland 630 -22) 8 4 ( + , fax 7 36 1 0 ) 63 48-22 ( + . l e 4/6, t ńskiego i b u ł a h C Polish Tourist Organisation, 00-928 Warszawa, ul. pl ov. g . t .po ww w , l ov.p ot.g p ot@ 2, p 4 7 1 www.poland-tourism.pl
