Delve into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed squares, streets, churches and monuments that make up Warsaw’s Old Town. Devastatingly damaged during World War II, the Old Town was faithfully recreated and looks cheerful once again with its multi-colored houses.
Start in Castle Square, home to the majestic Royal Castle (Zamek Królewski). Visit the palace that housed royals from the 16th through to the 18th century and browse the fine art collection of its Castle Museum. In the square’s center, look up at the towering column with its statue of King Zygmunt III, who made Warsaw the capital of Poland. The 72-foot (22-meter) high column and statue were erected in his honor in 1644.
Move on to the heart of Old Town in Market Square, which has been the focal point of Warsaw since the 13th century. Head to the bronze statue of the mythical Warsaw Mermaid in the center and use her vantage point to take in the renaissance-style buildings surrounding the square. From hosting markets, political speeches and even executions in years gone past, the square is now home to a diverse range of restaurants, shops and tourist attractions.
One example is the informative Museum of Warsaw located in several of the square’s historic houses. Browse the museum’s exhibits with a huge range of artifacts relating to the city. From a viewing platform on the 5th floor, take in the delightful views over Market Square and the roofs of the Old Town. Another attraction in the square is the Adam Mickiewicz Literature Museum, named after the country’s most celebrated writer.
Get in touch with the spiritual side of this devoutly Catholic city by visiting St. John’s Cathedral. The cathedral was originally established in the 14th century, but had to be rebuilt after wartime damage. Many famous people from Poland’s history are buried in its crypt and tombs. The nearby Shrine of Our Lady of Grace is a smaller but still delicately adorned religious building.
Warsaw’s Old Town is easy to reach on foot from all the central hotels in Warsaw. Trams and buses provide the best public transportation options, with stops just below Castle Square.
