Overview
A heavy subject, but one of great interest, is the remaining culture of the Jewish people.
For almost 700 years, Krakow was home to a large Jewish community. This was all but extinguished during the war, yet the echoes of this world can still be felt across the city. After a long period of post-war inertia, energy is returning to the districts that Jewish families once knew so well. Splendid synagogues are again functioning as places of worship and vibrant museums have opened in tribute to the lost world. Jewish klezmer music, reborn with a contemporary twist, echoes from the cellars of Kazimierz, the ancient heart of Jewish Krakow, drawing a host of young Polish and international fans. It is in this district that the history of the Polish Jews, along with some shots of Steven Spielberg's Schindler's List, were captured.
On this walk, we will explore the streets of Kazimierz, stopping at synagogues, market squares, and beautiful old graveyards. The magical Remuh cemetery is the best-surviving Renaissance Jewish graveyard in Europe, competing with the one in Prague. It is likely that there will be interesting one-off exhibitions in the district, and we can have a look at the best of the shows that are being held.
There is also the possibility to cross the river and explore Podgorze (a short walk from Kazimierz). This area, once a prosperous mercantile district, became Krakow's Jewish ghetto during the war. Fragments of the old wall still survive as a chilling reminder of a past that is really not that long ago at all. Whilst a few Jews managed to escape from the ghetto (Roman Polanski is a well known example), most were transported from here to the death camps.
During your experience, you will discover that history is not kept in the past, but the future looks bright.
- Entrance fees, food, beverages, and gratuities are not included in the price of this tour.
- Your interest in each site can be determined during the tour.
- The streets may be uneven, so please wear footwear that is comfortable for that terrain.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:00 AM, duration: 4 hours
- 01:00 PM, duration: 4 hours
