Town Hall Tower, Krakow

Slanting about 55 centimeters, the Town Hall Tower stands proudly as Krakow’s own Leaning Tower. This towering Gothic structure measures 70 meters in height and singularly garners the attention of those visiting the Main Square.

This lean structure adorned the city during the late 13th century and has stood ground ever since, enduring tribulations of passing time. The lonely structure that stands today was initially built to accompany a magnificent Town Hall that was demolished for the purposes of opening up the Main Square in 1820. Built in Gothic-style, the Town Hall was used as a prison and even contained medieval torture chambers.

The Tower's most attractive feature, its helmet, has been replaced thrice in the history of its existence. Initially, the Tower bore a beautiful Gothic top which was brought down by lightning in 1680. This was replaced by an ornate Baroque helmet designed by Piotr Beber which crumbled down in 1783. Post that, a smaller helmet replaced the tower top that presently covers the top of the Town Hall.

Today one can enjoy a hot brewed cup of coffee in the basement of the Tower that once contained outlaws of the city. The Tower also offers its visitors one of the finest views of the city and some vintage photographs that can take you through the history of Krakow.

Tip:
Fairly tricky climb up steps that are quite steep & deep so not for those with bad knees or little legs.
Don’t miss the giant bronze head located just outside the entrance.
View at the penultimate stop with pretty stained windows is great.
Free admission on Mondays!