Royal castle full of art
Krakow’s artistic royal castle
The first royal residence on Wawel hill was built in the 11th century, but this castle dates back to the 16th century. In those days Krakau was the economic and political capital of affluent Poland and King Sigismund I the Old (1467-1548) could afford to commission the construction of a monumental Renaissance palace. Designed according to the latest fashion by Italian architects, the palace boasts 71 rooms. Arrive early as the number of visitors is limited.
The 3 towers of the Krakow cathedral
Krakow cathedral
Since the 14th century, Polish kings have been crowned and buried in the Krakow cathedral. The cathedral is also the final resting place of statesmen such as Józef Piłsudski and Władysław Sikorski, and famous Polish poets Adam Mickiewicz and Juliusz Słowacki. A visit to these tombs and the royal crypt is a tour of Polish history - from the Medieval kings to the founding fathers of the republic. Karol Józef Wojtyła, later known as Pope John Paul II, was ordained here as bishop in 1958.
The décor of the most famous Polish legend
Deep into the Dragon cave
The cave that, according to legend, was once home to the dragon that terrorised Krakow, is now open to visitors. However, the dragon cave is more than just the décor of the most famous Polish folk tale: via the cave you can make an adventurous descent from Wawel hill to the river. Walk down 130 steps and then continue another 70 metres through the humid cave to the exit. By the river you will find a bronze sculpture of the Wawel dragon, created by sculptor Bronislaw Chromy. At set times the bronze dragon spews fire: children in particular love this fascinating attraction.
