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Warsaw's new old city

The historic centre of Warsaw is a pleasant exception to the Communist concrete that defines many Central European cities. The medieval Stare Miasto (old town) is one of the most popular destinations in Poland. It seems hard to believe that the old city was almost lost after German occupiers reduced most of it to rubble.

Arts & Culture

Russians and Germans

Stare Miasto began in the 13th century around the castle of the Dukes of Masovia, which then became the Royal Palace. Initially, the old city was surrounded by a dirt wall that was later replaced by a stone wall. For many years the neighbourhood played a central role in city life. However, during the 19th century this part of Poland that included Warsaw was conquered by the Russian Empire, and Stare Miasto lost its commercial importance as the heart of the capital. After World War I, Poland regained its sovereignty and the castle became the seat of the country's highest office - that of the president and his chancellery. The country’s self-determination proved short-lived when Germany invaded in 1939. Although the Luftwaffe caused substantial damage to the old city, most of it survived. But when in 1944 the Germans retaliated for the Warsaw Uprising, they left Stare Miasto in ruins.

A sunny day on Rynek Starego Miasta

Around the market square

Rynek Starego Miasta, the lively central market square, is a good starting point for exploring the old city. Visit the nearby St. John's Cathedral, where Polish kings were crowned and buried. Also take a look in the Ul. Piwna, the longest street of the old city; paintings and gargoyles adorn the façades. Treat yourself to a delicious refreshment at Karmnik, the popular cocktail bar at number 4A.

Arts & Culture

Warsaw’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier can be found in a remnant of the Saxon Palace that once housed the Polish Ministry of War. The monument is dedicated to all the soldiers who died anonymously in the fight for their homeland. It was founded in 1925 in honour of those who had defended Poland in World War I and in the Polish-Soviet War.