Kazimierz is not only the historic Jewish district that survived World War II, but also a Christian quarter with Gothic monuments and fascinating stories. During the walk we will discover the history of Kraków’s Jewish community, traces of its rich culture and its tragic fate during WWII, as well as explore the monuments of Christian Kazimierz. This unique district, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes the Church on the Rock (also known as Na Skałce) – one of Kraków’s most important sanctuaries, connected with St. Stanislaus, bishop and martyr, the patron saint of Kraków. We will also visit the magnificent Corpus Christi Church and explore traces of 19th-century industrial architecture that give Kazimierz its special character.

Podgórze – the modern city of the Habsburgs. Unlike historic Kraków, Podgórze was designed by the Austrians as a modern, fast-developing town with its own market square, elegant architecture, and Neo-Gothic churches. In the 19th century, it also became an important industrial hub, with factories, workshops, and distinctive workers’ housing shaping its urban landscape.

During the walk, we will explore the history of this fascinating district, visiting Neo-Gothic churches, representative town villas, and Bednarski Park – one of the first recreational areas in Europe, created on the grounds of a former quarry. Legends are also alive here – it is said that the famous alchemist Pan Twardowski once had his mysterious laboratory here (confirmed archaeologically!). We will also try to uncover the secrets of the unusual Podgórze coat of arms, which uniquely features a naked figure – a true rarity in heraldry!

Main highlights of the program:

• Historic Jewish district that survived WWII
• Christian part of Kazimierz with Gothic monuments
• Church on the Rock (Na Skałce) – site of St. Stanislaus, bishop and martyr, patron of Kraków
• Corpus Christi Church
• 19th-century industrial buildings
• Podgórze as a modern Austrian city
• Neo-Gothic churches
• 19th/20th-century town villas
• 19th-century industrial and workers’ architecture
• Bednarski Park – one of the first recreational zones in Europe
• Legend of the alchemist Pan Twardowski