On October 30th, the Erasmus+ group had a unique opportunity to explore Kraków and immerse themselves in its rich history. Guided by Joanna Świtała, a licensed tour guide, they embarked on a tour of the most iconic sites in the Old Town and Wawel Hill, uncovering the history of royal Kraków. This event, as part of Orientation Days, was organized by the International Cooperation Office.

The tour’s first stop was the Wawel Dragon and Wawel Hill, the former seat of Polish kings. Participants marveled at the majestic castle walls, learning fascinating stories connected to this remarkable place. The highlight of the visit was the Wawel Cathedral—a site of Polish royal coronations and a national necropolis. The group listened intently to stories of significant events and figures associated with the cathedral and toured its richly detailed architectural interior. Visiting the royal crypts, where kings like Władysław Jagiełło and Kazimierz the Great rest, gave a moment to reflect on Poland’s long history.

After visiting Wawel, the group proceeded to the Main Market Square, the heart of Kraków for centuries. Here, the St. Mary’s Basilica stood as the centerpiece for participants, its towers rising high above the square and captivating the eyes of both locals and tourists. The Mariacki bugle call, played hourly, added to the charm, bringing a unique atmosphere to the moment. Inside the basilica, the monumental altar by Veit Stoss left a profound impression on the group with its beauty and intricate craftsmanship.

The next stop was the Cloth Hall, where the group could explore local crafts and handiworks. The variety was impressive—from traditional goods to artistic handmade pieces. Additionally, as they strolled the narrow streets around the Market Square, participants had a chance to discover the city’s charming corners, filled with cozy cafés, small shops, and historic tenement houses. Kraków, with its romantic atmosphere and historic charm, revealed itself as a city that captivates at every turn.

After several hours of exploring and discovering, the group returned enriched with impressions and new knowledge about one of Poland's oldest and most atmospheric cities. We hope this unique journey will inspire participants to continue discovering Polish culture and history.