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Credits: Photographs, research and writing by Estela Kennen |
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 KrakowPoland
Introduction to Krakow For centuries Krakow was Poland's golden Royal City, and much of its ancient splendor can still be seen today. Yet modern Krakow (pronounced Krakov in Polish but sometimes spelled Cracow in English) is something altogether different - a fusion of the rich history of old, Nazi horrors, Communist rule, and roaring capitalism. Walking through the streets of Krakow on any given day, you can hear a flurry of languages, see folk dancers performing to a crowd of fashionably dressed residents, visit centuries-old churches, see Soviet-era apartments, and pay homage to history in Krakow's old Jewish quarters. Krakow's metropolitan area encompasses 1.5 million people, yet most tourists find their visit to the city altogether manageable since the majority of the prominent sites are within easy walking distance in Krakow's Old Town, and the rest (Wawel Castle, Kazimierz - the Jewish quarter) are fairly nearby.
This is a great city to soak up history and culture and ponder the instruments of change in creating what we see today. But Krakow is also a place to let your Epicurean side loose - the throbbing night clubs, world-class restaurants, and postcard-perfect cafes have something for everyone.
Ella Kennen is a freelance writer and travel junky. You can check out her photography at http://kennen.smugmug.com |
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©
Matt Falcus and DestinWorld 2002-2006 |
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