Food, Travel & Photography with Gayle: Krakow, Poland: Wawel Castle + Main Market Square

My photowalk/travel around Krakow barely began. Let me now take you around Wawel Castle.

Wawel Castle contains much history about the Polish both culturally and politically. In the year 1333-70, during the reign of Kazimierz the Great that this castle was born. Although a fire destroyed some portions of it back in 1499, it paved the way for Cracow's first taste of the Renaissance. It was then that the stunning courtyard was built, a design that started a long-lasting fashion in Poland. It is also marked by UNESCO as one of the World's Heritage Site.

Wawel Castle & Cathedral

Based on my observation, with our Polish tour guide, the Polish folks are very nationalistic. They take pride on their own race. And every Polish personality, one could name, they have them buried here at Wawel Cathedral. The last one I heard was they wanted to have the late Pope John's body be transferred here.

Monument of Tadeusz Kosciuszko

Tadeusz Kosciuszko:

Polish-Lithuanian and American general and military leader
National Hero of Poland.
He led the uprising against Russia and Prussia.
It was through him the Poland gained its independence

Wawel Castle Inner Courtyards

These are wall murals found on the top wall sides of the castle. They show here the wives of each kings who once ruled at Wawel Castle.

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After a historic tour of this mythical castle, we then proceeded to the Main Town Square or Market Town Square. Rynek Glowny is considered as one of the most beautiful squares in the entire world. The term Rynek is popularly known by the local people, as well as some foreigners who visits the place.

Rynek Glowny

At 200 sqm, it became the largest market place in Europe - vast and really beautiful. Some of the great dramas of Poland's history were played out here, remaining as one of the most vibrant and inspiring places in the country. It was and is still the heart of the commercial and social trade. It was also the place for festivals and public gatherings.

During the summer, the cafes bring out their chairs outside. It is a good place to sit and watch the world go by.

The main market square oozes with so many restaurants. They also have displays of an assortment of flowers. Its buskers and flower-sellers, mad pigeons and varied architecture, this is one place that is never a dull.