Wawel Castle, Royal castle on Wawel Hill, Krakow, Poland
Description
Wawel Castle is a royal residence complex set on a limestone elevation above the Vistula River in Krakow. The grounds cover five hectares and include several courtyards along with towers and ceremonial halls overlooking the water.
History
Polish rulers lived here from the eleventh to the sixteenth centuries and made decisions that shaped the country over hundreds of years. After the capital moved to Warsaw, the site remained the coronation and burial place for monarchs.
Culture
The courtyard represents one of the earliest Renaissance designs north of the Alps with open arcades dating from the 1530s. The building itself combines late medieval fortifications with Italian decorative elements rarely found together in such a manner.
Practical
Entry tickets for the State Rooms, Royal Apartments and Treasury are sold separately and should be reserved ahead of time. The climb up to the complex involves cobbled paths and stairs, so comfortable footwear is helpful.
Did you know?
Beneath the hill lies a two hundred seventy meter limestone cave system leading to the Dragon's Den. At the exit stands a bronze dragon sculpture that can breathe fire when triggered by visitors.
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