While Poland doesn’t tend to be the number one destination on people’s travel bucket lists, it’s actually a place that’s steeped in historical culture. Not only is it home to fourteen UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Many famous historical faces come from Poland too. From Nicolaus Copernicus, the mathematician and astronomer that formulated a model of the universe that placed the sun at the center to Frédéric Chopin, the famous composer and pianist, to even Seweryn Klosowski from the Jack the Ripper case
In addition to history, Poland is also home to multiple breathtaking natural attractions, including salt mines, rocky coastlines, national parks, and towering mountains. Discover more about the wonders of Poland Top Tourist Attractions below.
Lazienki Park
Lazienki Park is one of Poland’s largest urban parks, covering 76 hectares of the city center. The park dates all the way back to the 17th century, wherein it was a baths park for noblemen. Since then, the park’s Palace and its surrounding gardens have been publicized. In addition to this palace, there’s a classicist temple dedicated to the goddess Diana, smaller palaces that take shape as galleries and museums, and a classical-theater isle stage on which performances still take place. What’s more, we’ve already touched on the significance of Frédéric Chopin, and his statue stands on the grounds.
Malbork Castle
Teutonic Knights constructed Malbork Castle in the 13th century to accommodate the crusading military unit’s religious order. Initially, the castle was a small fortification; however, as centuries went on, it expanded to become a colossal structure. Previously, Malbork Castle was Europe’s largest Gothic building, and it still takes the title of the largest castle in the world by land area. Currently, though, many of the original rooms remain preserved while the rest of the space has been transformed into a museum. Within the building, you’ll find the knights’ private toilet, a collection of armory, a huge fireplace, and a medieval kitchen.
Warsaw Old Market Place
Although this oldest part of Warsaw dates all the way back to the 13th century, as much as 85% of the area was obliterated during World War II. Since then, though, the space has been restored to its natural glory. With a combination of merchant houses, Renaissance buildings, and Gothic and medieval architecture, the colorful area showcases Warsaw’s aesthetic beauty. In the center sits a bronze sword-wielding mermaid that was crafted in the 19th century, symbolizing the resilience of the country. In addition to these traditional buildings, the square also contains souvenir stalls, street art sellers, restaurants, and cafes.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Camps
A visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau camps is an experience like no other due to the heart-breaking nature of the place. The tragic history of the camps is quite well-known globally, meaning the visit is never entered into lightly. In order to see the camp, one must book in for a tour. Therefore, you’ll be guided around the camp by someone who is very familiar with the history, allowing you to truly understand the depth of devastation that occurred in these camps. For instance, less than 10% of the people that we brought to Auschwitz between 1942 and 1944 survived their stay.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Last but not least is the world’s oldest salt mine, which has held onto its importance for a number of years. It hasn’t operated as a salt mine since 1996, but it has become an artistic attraction. The rock salt walls make up statues, corridors, and four chapels, making for a remarkable space. What’s more, visitors are able to explore the original passageways and shafts that have been reopened to display the chambers and pits that workers found themselves in. The star of the show is the Chapel of St. Kinga, which is a 12-meter high chamber in which everything is crafted from salt.
