10 Interesting Things About Poland You May Not Know

Poland, located in Central Europe, is well-known for its extensive history, beautiful architecture, and kind citizens. While many are aware with Poland’s well-known places, such as the Wawel Castle in Krakow or the Royal Castle in Warsaw, there are many less well-known features that frequently go unnoticed. There are also many fun facts about Polish traditions and culture that may surprise many people. Today we will explore some of them.

The Amber Capital

Gdańsk, a beautiful coastal city in Poland, holds the title of being the world’s amber capital. Amber, a fossilized tree resin, is highly prized for its beauty and historical significance. Gdańsk’s streets are lined with amber shops offering an impressive array of jewelry and unique artifacts. The city’s streets are lined with amber stores that sell a variety of jewelry and one-of-a-kind items. Don’t pass up the chance to explore the fascinating world of amber by going to the Amber Museum, which is located in the old Prison Tower.

One of the Europe’s oldest restaurant is located in Wroclaw

Located within the basement of the Old Town Hall, Piwnica Świdnicka, stands as one of the oldest restaurant in Europe. It was founded in 1273 and it serves delicious meals to this day in the charming city of Wroclaw.

The Crooked Forest

Located in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, the Crooked Forest (Krzywy Las) is a mysterious and enchanting place. This small grove of pine trees consists of around 400 oddly-shaped trees, all bent at a 90-degree angle at their base. Theories regarding the cause of this phenomenon range from unique growth patterns influenced by human manipulation to gravitational anomalies or even the weight of heavy snowfall.

Salt Mines of Wieliczka

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located near Krakow, is one of the world’s oldest salt mines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stretches over 287 kilometers of tunnels and chambers, showing incredible salt sculptures and underground lakes. This vast network offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to explore the fascinating world of salt mining. A visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a truly immersive and inspiring experience. 

Chopin’s Heart

Frederic Chopin, the renowned composer and pianist, was born in Poland and was a Polish language speaker. After his death, Chopin’s heart was preserved and is now buried in Warsaw’s Holy Cross Church as a symbolic nod to Poland’s profound admiration for his artistic brilliance. However, his body is buried in Paris. 

Warsaw’s Rebirth

During World War II, Warsaw experienced widespread devastation, with over 85% of the city reduced to rubble. The iconic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was among the areas heavily damaged. However, the determination to rebuild the city was unwavering. Today, the meticulously rebuilt Old Town stands as a symbol of Warsaw’s stubbornness to preserve its cultural heritage.  

Polish Cuisine

Polish cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors and traditions. Pierogi, savory dumplings stuffed with a variety of ingredients, are a classic of Polish cuisine that are loved by both residents and tourists. There are many restaurants in the city of Wroclaw that serve wide range of delicious meals and desserts. Other well-known foods in Poland include żurek (sour rye soup), bigos (hunter’s stew), and oscypek (smoked sheep cheese). Polish cuisine is a treat for food enthusiasts looking to explore new tastes.

The Polish Alphabet

The Polish language alphabet consists of 32 letters, including some unique characters such as ż, ą, and ć. While it may appear intimidating to those unfamiliar with it, mastering the Polish language can be a rewarding experience. The pronunciation and Polish grammar may present a challenge, but learning Polish language will undoubtedly impress locals and enhance your travel experience. 

University is free in Poland

Higher education in Poland is free for Polish citizens. International students usually have to pay a very small tuition to study in Poland, for those who study in Polish language it is even lower. The oldest university in Poland – The Jagiellonian University – was founded by King Casimir III in 1364. 

The world’s largest castle, measured by land area, is located in Poland

The Castle of Teutonic Order in Malbork is a remarkable site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site of great historical and architectural significance. This medieval fortress stands as one of the largest brick castles in the world. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking to explore Poland’s cultural heritage, a visit to the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork is an absolute must.