Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle (Wavel Castle) is a medieval royal palace complex located on Wawel Hill on the left bank of the Vistula River in Kraków, and is one of the city’s most famous historic landmarks.

The construction of Wawel Castle began between the 8th and 9th centuries, and it became the royal residence of Poland by the 10th century. Over the following centuries, it was continuously expanded until the Renaissance period in the 16th century. Unfortunately, the original royal buildings were completely destroyed during wars. What can be seen today, both in terms of architecture and interior decoration, are post-war reconstructions — replicas of the originals. The restoration work lasted more than thirty years and was largely completed by the 1980s. This ancient architectural ensemble includes medieval walls, towering ancient trees, churches and royal palaces of various styles, as well as tombs of generations of royalty. The main palace building on the square is surrounded by multi-tiered arcades, presenting a grand and imposing sight adorned with exquisite carvings. A Gothic domed cathedral houses the stone sarcophagi of Polish kings and queens throughout the ages. The Sigismund Bell in the tower weighs 18 tons and is an important cultural relic from Poland’s medieval period.

Today, parts of Wawel Castle are open to the public as a royal museum. Although the buildings are reconstructions, the exhibits on display — such as ancient weapons and royal treasures — are genuine and priceless artifacts.

Wavel Castle

Must-visit reason: One of Kraków’s most famous historic landmarks

Continent: Europe

Country/Region: Poland

Province/State: Lesser Poland Voivodeship

City: Kraków