 Wroclaw
is the centre of Silesia - one of the biggest provinces of which
Poland is composed. With population of 660,000 inhabitants it is
the fourth largest Polish city and definitely one of the most interesting
ones.
Similarly to other cities, the present Wroclaw is a product of tumultuous
historical development. Founded by Czech princes in 10th century
it soon got under control of Polish Piast dynasty. In 14th century
(1335) was the Silesia region annexed by Luxembourg dynasty reigning
in Prague back to Czech crown, being for several hundred years the
second town after Prague. The citizens were predominantly German
of catholic origin and created opposition to protestant Czechs.
During 16th to 18th centuries Wroclaw was administered by Austrian
emperors, until 1741 when it was lost to Prussians. Silesian lands
were one of the economic cores of Germany until the end of World
War II. Wroclaw (Breslau) defended itself against attacking Soviet
troops longer then Berlin, the fall of Festung Breslau (Wroclaw
fortress) was signed as late as on May 6, 1945. After the war Wroclaw
became a Polish city, the majority of population changed dramatically.
Most newcomers came from former Eastern provinces which were lost
to the Soviet Union.
 The
reasons why you might want to visit it is firstly its unique location.
The town is nestled on the confluence of two rivers - Odra and Olawa.
Add to it several other tributaries, canals and the result is that
Wroclaw lies on 12 islands which are connected by approximately
120 bridges (about 40 just for pedestrians).
Not all historical sights are original - the city was also half
in ashes after WW2, but wandering around the city core you will
get a taste of all important historical architecture styles. In
few places on earth you can see such accumulation of Gothic cathedrals
and churches like in Wroclaw - the hot spot is definitely the "Ostrow
Tumski" - Tum Island. Spiritual feeling and traditions
are visible on every step. We recommend mostly the 13th century
Cathedral and the Church of Holy Cross - a gothic
building consisting of two levels. On the upper level Catholic masses
are celebrated, while the lower level is devoted to the Orthodox
rite.
 The
main square ranks among the largest in central Europe and is decorated
by an unforgettably beautiful Gothic town hall. The old town
is not small and gives you enough opportunity for a longer stay.
If you are an admirer of Baroque art, the place is then the the
Aula Leopoldina - the representative hall of the University
founded by Leopold I in 1702. If you are in for museums, do not
miss the Historical museum in the main square, the National Museum
or the Arsenal.
If you want to try something special, go for the Raclawice  Panorama
- a monstrous painting 115 meters long and weighing 3500 kg.
It depicts a victorious battle in 1794 which was led against Russian
as one of the last attempts to preserve an independent Polish state,
before it disappeared from map for 130 years). The painting is on
display in a separate rotunda-like building on the outskirts of
the Old Town.
Alternatively, venture to Eastern suburbs to see more of Wroclaw.
Wroclaw is famous for constructivist German architecture from the
first half of the 20th century. Besides the Market hall in
the very centre built in 1905, your target should be a jewel of
modernism, the original Hall of Century, designed by Max
Berg. Presently it is a place where Silesian fairs take place. Opened
in 1914, the hall commemorated the centenary of Napoleon's defeat.
The hall can house 6000 people and the shape is inspired by Rome's
Pantheon and St.Peter's cathedral, Babylon's ziggurats, the Hagia
Sophia dome in Istanbul or Gothic architecture. Another example
is the Olimpic stadium - to remembrance the wish of Hitler's
wish to hold the Olympic Games there in 1940.
Nature lovers may enjoy nearby zoo, arguably the best in Poland
and a lovely Japanese garden with a larch church built originating
in the 16th century. Very pleasant is the Park Szczytnicki.
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