Prague, Czech Republic

Let's close out November with another city-focused travel post.  Today: our 2010 visit to Prague.

I look above the computer and see a professional picture of Charles Bridge, one of the most iconic in the world.  Prague is quite popular with tourists- it's the 8th-most visited European city (source here) and tops in the former Soviet bloc.  It's easy to see why- it's a beautiful city, dominated by the castle, Charles Bridge, and town center.  In addition to the 'standard' joys of Medieval European architecture and culture, I really enjoyed the Communism museum- an unsympathetic look back at the country's years under Communist rule.  The Jewish areas, like in Krakow, were humbling reminders of a people long oppressed.  The observant traveler may even find a Zombie bar in the area, and we got to park in a super-cool double-decker parking mechanism, where the bottom cars disappeared underground to access the upper levels.  The food was good, the people were nice . . . one wonders what this city (and nation) could be if not constrained by decades of Communist rule.

Krakow, Poland

Normally, I cover our European travels by country.  We didn't get to see much of Poland, though, so I'll confine the review to one city.  Thankfully, it's an amazing place, and well worth the sole focus.  Today's post is about Krakow.

Town Square

Krakow has a lot going for it.  Starting in the center, the main square is a place of beauty, culture, and good eating (note the variety of pierogis).  The cloth hall had a cool indoor market with lots of chess sets.

Town

The town itself has what I'd call typical European charm.  Cool buildings, monuments, town walls, and streets abound.

Churches

I've seen a lot of European Churches.  I mean a lot.  But Krakow took the cake in number and variety.  I lost count of the number we toured.

Castle

Like many ancient cities, Krakow has a castle situated on the town's high ground.  It's imposing and beautiful.

Jewish Sites

Steven Spielberg fans may know that Schindler had his famous factory in Krakow (today, it's a museum, well worth a visit).  The synagogue and Jewish cemetery are also sobering sites for reflection.

Salt Mine

One of the most impressive things I've ever seen, the salt mine featured tunnels, sculptures, and even a cathedral- all made out of salt.

Auschwitz

A short taxi ride from Krakow, Auschwitz is a must- but bring tissues.  Over 1.5 million people (mostly Jews) lost their lives here during the Nazi exterminations during WWII.  Separated into two camps, the one has the famous 'arbeit macht frei' sign and loads of exhibits; the other has ruins of the gas chambers and dwelling places.

Conclusion

Our visit to Krakow was one of my favorite trips ever.  So much to see, so many emotions (both good and bad).