If you’re planning a trip to Poland, let me tell you about the fantastic city of Kraków – a place with an abundant history and vibrant culture. Kraków offers several noteworthy squares, each possessing its unique charm and historical significance. Let’s start with the most famous square in Kraków – the Main Square or, as locals call it, Rynek Główny.
Established back in the 13th century, Rynek Główny is the beating heart of the city. It is worth mentioning that with an area of 9.4 acres, it holds the title of the largest medieval town square in Europe. Rynek Główny is always buzzing with activity, featuring a cornucopia of cafes, museums, clubs, pubs, music bars, souvenir shops, historical landmarks, hotels, and hostels. But it doesn’t stop here, I am convinced you would also appreciate other significant squares Kraków has to offer.
Squares to Discover in Kraków
As you stroll a block west of Rynek Główny, you’ll find yourself in Plac Szczepański (Szczepański Square). This square emerged during the city’s medieval period and continues to be a vibrant part of Kraków’s landscape.
Wolnica Square, nestled in the Kazimierz district, is another gem worth exploring. Known for its historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere, this square has a lot to offer.
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There’s also Matejko Square, named after the celebrated Polish painter Jan Matejko. Located near the Barbican, this square boasts a statue of the artist himself. If you’re a fan of art, this is definitely a spot you’d want to visit.
For those who love the nightlife, Jewish Square or Plac Nowy situated in the Kazimierz district is the place to be. It is famous for its lively evenings and the renowned New Square Market Hall.
These squares, together with other streets in Kraków, contribute to the city’s rich tapestry of history and vibrant atmosphere.
Old Kleparz Square
But there’s more! I think you shouldn’t miss out on Rynek Kleparski, widely known in Kraków as Stary Kleparz – the oldest functioning market in the city. Its roots are embedded deep into the western part of the market square of a now non-existent city.
- You can find the location of Stary Kleparz square on Google Maps by clicking here
Over the centuries, several attempts were made to turn it into a representative square. However, the centuries-old tradition and habits of Cracovians prevailed, preserving Stary Kleparz as a bustling market, an integral part of the city’s daily life.
Holy Spirit Square
Continuing our journey, we reach Holy Spirit Square, a place that paints a vivid picture of Kraków’s past. This square has long been associated with hospitals. I can tell you one intriguing fact – one of these hospitals was an insane asylum. The asylum was established in thirteen narrow monastic cells, each housing at least three individuals.
- You can find the location of Plac Świętego Ducha square on Google Maps by clicking here
It was home to men and women, young and old, each grappling with different stages of mental illness. But the asylum wasn’t exclusively for the mentally ill. It also accommodated those bitten by rabid animals and individuals sufering from epilepsy. It’s an essential piece of the city’s history, one that will surely spark your curiosity.
Podgorski Square
From there, if you traverse towards the foot of Lasota Hill, you will stumble upon Podgorski Market, the heart of the city. This central city square has been the main marketplace since 1798. On Tuesdays and Fridays, this place would burst into life with vendors from places as diverse as Wieliczka, Bochnia, Kalwaria, and even as far as the Czech Republic and Hungary, often bypassing Kraków. It is worth to say, the marketplace was a bustling hub until 1917 when a tram line was introduced around the square.
- You can find the location of Rynek Podgórski square on Google Maps by clicking here
The Little Market
Behind the St. Mary’s and Saint Barbara’s churches, the second-largest square in old Kraków beckons. Known as the Small Market, this place is steeped in history. Over centuries, it has been defined in numerous ways, depending on the time and the purpose it served. Nowadays, it goes by the name Small Market, and it is a beloved part of the city’s historic fabric.
- You can find the location of Mały Rynek square on Google Maps by clicking here
Doubting Thomas Alley (Zaułek Niewiernego Tomasza)
Last but not least, we reach a small but incredibly charming square, the Doubting Thomas Alley. Tucked away close to the market yet away from the hustle and bustle of Sukiennice, this place is loved by tourists and locals alike.
Known for its unique atmosphere and a massive palm tree in the center, it’s easily one of the city’s most charming spots. Here you can enjoy some peace and quiet in the old French-style chairs, under umbrellas devoid of intrusive brewery advertisements.
- You can find the location of Zaułek Niewiernego Tomasza square on Google Maps by clicking here
If you want to experience Kraków at its finest, I believe these squares and markets should be on your itinerary. They’re a testament to the city’s rich history and thriving present, offering a taste of Kraków that you won’t find anywhere else.
Czartoryski Lane
Let’s start this part of our journey at one of the most enchanting locations in Kraków, Lane XX. Czartoryski. Tucked just outside the city walls, this place evolved over centuries and got its final touch in the late 19th century. The small square, under the watchful eyes of the god Mercury, houses an open-air gallery of paintings. It serves as a warm welcome to art enthusiasts and visitors heading to the Czartoryski museum. I know you will find it irresistible!
- You can find the location of Zaułek Książąt Czartoryskich square on Google Maps by clicking here
Szczepański Square
Our next stop, Szczepański Square, has a history that goes way back. For several centuries, this part of Kraków was completely developed. Historians believe that a church and a large cemetery, which extended up to today’s St John Street, stood here during pre-incorporation times.
- You can find the location of Plac Szczepański square on Google Maps by clicking here
All Saints Square
According to many historians, All Saints Square was initially the formal and legal center of Kraków. It is believed that around 1220, the so-called small location of the city took place, with the bustling market located around today’s All Saints’ Square being the central hub of life.
- You can find the location of Plac Wszystkich Świętych square on Google Maps by clicking here
St. Mary’s Square
Now, if you want to catch a glimpse of the turbulent history of the city, you should visit St. Mary’s Square. Although this small area is considered an integral part of the Kraków market for tourists, it has always been administratively independent. The square, named St. Mary’s Square since the beginning of the 19th century, witnessed many of the ups and downs in the city’s history starting from the Middle Ages. It’s a place where you can truly feel the pulse of the past.
- You can find the location of Plac Mariacki square on Google Maps by clicking here
Jan Matejko Square
Our final stop is Jan Matejko Square, a place with a story that would pique any history buff’s interest. On June 25, 1366, King Casimir the Great was staying at the castle in Sandomierz. It was probably during this time that he was contemplating the safety of his capital. He decided to issue a location act, based on Magdeburg law, for a new city, which he fittingly named Florence.
- You can find the location of Plac Jana Matejki square on Google Maps by clicking here
I am convinced these squares are a testament to the rich hstory of Kraków. Each square has a unique story to tell, and I believe you will find your visit to these places both enlightening and enjoyable.
References
- http://www.krakow-info.com/squares.htm
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Square,_Krak%C3%B3w
- https://www.urtrips.com/en/top-squares-in-krakow/
- https://visitkrakow.com/krakows-market-square/
- https://www.inyourpocket.com/krakow/sightseeing/Streets-and-Squares
- http://www.krakow.travel/en/guide/streets-and-squares,112
