Kazimierz District – the Unique Atmosphere You Won't Find Anywhere Else
Krakow's Kazimierz is one of the most beautiful districts in Europe, a cradle of Jewish art and culture. It stands out thanks to its unique atmosphere, rich history, and numerous traces of Jewish heritage, still visible at nearly every turn. With its preserved urban layout, it delights visitors with picturesque streets, historic tenement houses, and old synagogues. Former workshops and manufactories in the area played a significant role in the development of Krakow's trade and craftsmanship.
Kazimierz, Krakow - History of a Town That Became a District
Today, Kazimierz is a district of Krakow, but that was not always the case. For several centuries, it functioned as an independent town, complete with its own market square and town hall. It was founded in 1335 by King Casimir the Great (from whom the town takes its name) on a marshy island between the present course of the Vistula River and a now-vanished branch of the river. The new town was primarily meant to protect Krakow, the royal seat, from the south. Soon after, Kazimierz grew in importance and became a nationally recognised centre of trade and craftsmanship. For many centuries, the town developed peacefully alongside Krakow. It was only in the 19th century, during the period of Poland's partitions, that the Austrians incorporated Kazimierz into Krakow. At that time, the old river branch was filled in, and Dietla Street was laid out, symbolically and physically linking the two banks.
A Little Town Within a Town – How the Jewish Heritage of Kazimierz Was Born
However, let's rewind to the year 1495, not the 19th century. It was then that King John I Albert ordered the relocation of the Jewish community from Krakow to Kazimierz. The north-eastern part of Kazimierz was designated for them – an area surrounded by walls and functioning as a separate entity with its self-government, known as the oppidum iudaeorum (the Jewish town). From that moment until the outbreak of the Second World War, Kazimierz remained a vital spiritual and intellectual centre for the Jewish community. It was here that Moses Isserles (Remuh) lived and worked – a renowned scholar and head of the Talmudic academy (Yeshivah) located in Kazimierz. His grave, situated beside one of the oldest synagogues in Poland, remains a pilgrimage site visited by pilgrims from around the world. Alongside religious life, education, trade, and social institutions also thrived in Kazimierz. In short, Kazimierz was full of everyday life – with markets, artisans' workshops and houses of prayer. This vibrant life continued until 1942, when the tragic events of the war brutally interrupted the story of the local Jewish community. What remains are monuments and memories, lovingly preserved by future generations.
Living Jewish Culture – Krakow Seen Through the Eyes of Kazimierz
In Krakow's Kazimierz, Jewish culture remains alive and vibrant. While strolling through the streets of this district, one can often encounter the distinctive sound of klezmer music, advertising boards styled to resemble pre-war signage, restaurants serving traditional Jewish cuisine, or atmospheric bookshops whose shelves are stacked with Jewish literature. One of the most recognisable events is the annual Jewish Culture Festival, held in early summer. Its final concert, Shalom on Szeroka Street, draws crowds of locals and tourists from around the world. It is an evening filled with warmth, light, and music, where audiences immerse themselves in the spirit of history under the open sky, surrounded by tenement houses and cobblestone streets.
Kazimierz – Tourist Attractions You Can't Miss
While walking through the streets of Kazimierz, we recommend taking time to explore the places that best capture the district's unique character.
Kazimierz – What to See:
· Old Synagogue – one of the oldest synagogues in Poland (dating back to the 15th century). Today, it houses a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow, dedicated to the History and Culture of Krakow's Jews.
· Remuh Synagogue and Jewish Cemetery – the second-oldest Synagogue in Krakow, built in the 16th century, along with the Jewish cemetery (kirkut) established in the same period. From the shattered tombstones (matzevot) destroyed during the Second World War, the so-called Krakow Wailing Wall was created.
· Tempel Synagogue – the only temple associated with Krakow's progressive Jewish intelligentsia, built in the second half of the 19th century. It stands out from other synagogues with its richly decorated interior and colourful stained-glass windows.
· Wolnica Square – the former central square of the town of Kazimierz, now home to the Ethnographic Museum.
· The “Okraglak” at the New Square – once a ritual poultry slaughterhouse, today a legendary spot known for its Polish-style baguette pizzas (zapiekanki).
· Kupa Synagogue – built in the 17th century, this Synagogue was added to the northern section of the defensive walls, which are partially preserved to this day.
Streets, Murals and Atmospheric Corners of Krakow’s Kazimierz
Not everything worth seeing in Kazimierz can be found in guidebooks. Some places you have to discover on your own – sometimes by chance, sometimes through a recommendation – but always at your own pace.
To truly experience the spirit of Kazimierz, be sure to explore:
· Jozefa Street – home to intimate galleries, artisan workshops, and a historical mural depicting figures connected to the district, such as King Casimir the Great, Esterka, and Helena Rubinstein.
· Miodowa Street – with shop signs straight out of decades past and working ateliers that seem untouched by time.
· Szeroka Street – once a local meeting place, now lined with restaurants, synagogues and remnants of old Kazimierz.
· Waska Street – where you will find the Judah mural on the wall of a tenement house, showing a boy pulling a lion, created by Israeli artist Pilpeled.
· Nowa Street – featuring a colourful, geometric mural that brightens up this lesser-known corner of the district.
· The courtyards of Popper and Meiselsa – filled with bookshops, cafés, and galleries.
· The New Square – not just a hub for street food, but a place that radiates local life and energy.
Murals, pre-war shop signs, wooden shutters – all of these contribute to the district's one-of-a-kind atmosphere. And if it all seems strangely familiar, that is no surprise. Kazimierz has often been transformed into a film set. It was here, among other places, that Steven Spielberg shot scenes for Schindler's List.
Kazimierz – Historical District and a Different Side of Krakow
Kazimierz is best discovered without rushing. Don't just stick to the main routes – take a detour, stop for a coffee, or pop into any place that happens to catch your eye. Perhaps it is not a coincidence but… destiny? The district shifts with the time of day and your mood – sometimes full of life and chatter, other times offering a moment of calm and reflection.
Find out more:
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