Blonia Green, Krakow

From disputed land custody to serving as fresh fodder for the cattle in Krakow, the Blonia Green has its own story to relay. Today one of the many fine gardens that the city boasts of, the Blonia serves as a place for some tranquil, peace and nature that visitors and locals alike can unwind in.

The garden stretches over a massive 118 acres of land and is one large meadow in the midst of the city. Sharing its land with the Jordan Park, the Blonia is one place that has been in dispute since the early 14th century.

The Blonia pastures first belonged to the nuns of the Premonstratensian Convent who transferred the land to the city in exchange for the townhouse in 1366. However, shortly after the transaction, the structure was destroyed by a fire which gave rise to the dispute that carried on for over a century. The nuns wanted the land they previously had signed to the city and sought help from the King and the Apostolic See. However, today the city is still the proud owner of the land and the Premonstratensian Convent were asked to make do with their prior commitment.

Over the years it has gained its reputation as being the best place in the city for cattle to graze, albeit that was put to an end with the Cracovia Hotel opening in its proximity. However, if you are still lucky you may encounter cattle grazing about lazily on a nice sunny day. A common place for domesticated canine as well, the Blonia Green is one place that can never be made exclusive.