About Krakow

PODGÓRZE DISTRICT

Podgórze district is one of those less touristy areas, although it remains a very interesting district of Krakow, with a unique atmosphere. It is placed on the southern bank of Wisła River; about 25 minutes walk from the Old Town. Until the beginning of the 20th century it was a separate town.

Today, it is becoming more and more popular, and it's said that Podgórze is like Kazimierz ( Jewish district) used to be 15 years ago, before being a popular place for cultural events and nightlife. If you like a less touristy central place, Podgórze is for you. You can get there from Kazimierz by walking over Pilsudski bridge - one of the oldest bridges in town.
 
Things to see:

- the oldest man-made structure in Podgórze - the Krakus Mound (Kopiec Krakusa) with a great view from the top.

- Schindler's Factory. Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist, saved Jews from labour camps by employing them in this factory. This story was told in the 'Schindler's List' movie.

- Old Cemetery of Podgórze (Stary Cmentarz Pódgórski) - A peaceful place with the old, 19th century graves of noble citizens, politicians and artists from Podgórze.

- St Benedict's Fortification (Fort ¦w. Benedykta) - Built in 1853-56 it was one of the first parts of the city defense built by Austrians. One of the very few surviving examples of a fortification known as 'Maximilian's Tower'.

- Bednarskiego Park - founded by Wojciech Bednarski in 1896, the school headmaster. Beautiful landscaped park with over 100 species of trees. It incorporates high rocks and valleys and it's a great, quiet alternative for more conventional parks located next to the Old Town.

- Market square of Podgórze (Rynek Podgórski) - A large square with stylish, old houses. There is the large brick, neo-gothic church of St. Josef situated there.
 
Moreover, you can visit good art galleries in Podgórze, such as Starmach Gallery. It's located in a restored interior of a former synagogue and is the largest private gallery in Poland. It regularly holds exhibitions of modern art.

For a drink, you can go to Drukarnia club - located by the river, a cool place holding cultural events, concerts, it has 3 bars and a great warm atmosphere.