Wawel Royal Castle, Krakow (must see)

Situated at the heart of Krakow, the Wawel Royal Castle stands as a regal residence with a rich historical legacy. It holds the distinction of being among the earliest UNESCO World Heritage Sites globally. This castle was commissioned by King Casimir III the Great and comprises a range of architectural elements from different epochs, encircling the central courtyard designed in an Italian style. With its grand scale, the castle is a testament to Poland's architectural prowess, showcasing diverse European styles spanning the medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque eras. Both the Wawel Royal Castle and the adjacent Wawel Hill hold unparalleled historical and cultural significance on a national level.

This castle forms the core of a fortified architectural ensemble positioned atop a limestone prominence on the northern bank of the Vistula River, elevated at an impressive 228 meters above sea level. This complex encompasses a multitude of buildings that carry immense historical and national importance. Among them, the Wawel Cathedral stands out—a sacred site where Polish monarchs received their coronations and final resting places. Some of the oldest stone structures in Wawel trace back to the year 970 AD, showcasing pioneering instances of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles in Poland. The present-day castle, initially established in the 14th century, underwent continuous expansion over the ensuing centuries.

Having served as the royal residence for generations of Polish kings and a symbol of the nation's sovereignty, the Wawel Castle has evolved into a premier art museum within the country. Since its establishment in 1930, the museum has developed ten distinct curatorial divisions, overseeing an array of art collections. These encompass paintings of various genres, including a notable assembly of Italian Renaissance artworks, as well as prints, sculptures, textiles, and the renowned Sigismund II Augustus tapestry collection. The museum also boasts an assortment of goldsmith's creations, arms and armor, ceramics, Meissen porcelain, and period furnishings. Notably, the museum's holdings also encompass a remarkable collection of oriental art, highlighted by Europe's most extensive array of Ottoman tents.

Why You Should Visit:
The Wawel Royal Castle was among the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites declared in 1978.

Tip:
You can walk around the grounds for no charge at all; what you choose to do dictates the entry price. Opting for the State Rooms and Royal Apartments is worth it as you see a lot of impressive and well-preserved interiors. The Sandomierska Tower will give you a great all-round view of the place and the Dragon's Den takes you to the underground caves, but note that these are seasonal (closed Nov-Mar).