A fortnight of celebrations is about to kick off as Cracow recalls a seminal moment in her history. 750 years ago the city was in a supremely sorry state. The Mongol troops of Batu Khan had laid waste to much of Central Europe, and Cracow was one of the worst hit spots. After the whirlwind had passed, Prince Boleslas the Shy ( the chaste chappie never consummated his marriage) resolved to rebuild Cracow in grand style. The city was laid out according to a grid pattern, and the street system has survived unchanged until today. Under the favourable terms of Magdeburg Law, merchants flocked to the city, and Cracow went from strength to strength.
In tribute to the Act of Location of 1257, the coming week will see an embarrassment of riches on the event front, including concerts, parades and exhibition openings. A key event will be the opening of a new cultural pavilion right in the heart of the Old Town. It's one of the only modern buildings in the entire historic centre, and we think it's a stunner. The pavilion opens its doors on Saturday 2nd. Later in the week, on Wednesday 6th, the picturesque Maly Rynek (Little Market Square) will emerge from a much needed face-lift, complete with a brand new statue of Prince Boleslas the Shy.
More on the 750th Anniversary of Cracow's Location
Full Anniversary Programme
General Cracow Events
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