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Poznan. Colorful traditional tenements in the old town

Poznań is full of cultural events and delicious international fare, with a special dedication to historical storytelling, rendering it quite an exciting destination. (Rochu_2008 (Adobe Stock))

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Poznań is a vibrant city that blends old traditions with modernity. It is one of Poland’s most historically important cities and was once the capital of the Polish state. It was the site of the first Polish coronation, and its people have not shied away from organizing uprisings against oppressive leaders.

Out and About

The city is home to some world-renowned events like the BitterSweet Festival – a massive three-day summer music festival that draws big names to Poznan. There is also the international Impact Conference – a large gathering of speakers and leaders who focus on future-minded topics like geopolitics, business, environment and technology.

History in Focus

Poznań has lots of museums. Inside the Town Hall is the Museum of Poznań, with a fascinating array of displays plunging you into political movements, conflictsand culture. The Greater Poland Museum of Independence oversees five unique branches throughout the city and the National Museum houses an archeology department covering European and ancient histories.

Red bridge spans on Ostrów Tumski in Poznań with a winter view of the cathedral and its distinctive green towers

Also visit Ostrów Tumski, or “Cathedral Island” as its sometimes called, in the middle of the Warta River. (Adam (Adobe Stock))

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Also visit Ostrów Tumski, or “Cathedral Island” as its sometimes called, in the middle of the Warta River and home to the 1,000-year-old Poznań Cathedral where the first monarch of Poland was baptized.

Art Love

Whatever you do, take a moment to enjoy the large murals that dot the city like a free art gallery. Be sure to check out the 3D mural Sródka on the east side of the Warta River. In the city center, the Imperial Castle is a cultural center that, despite its name, was only built in the early 20th century .Five blocks away, is the Royal Castle, a reconstruction of a 13th-century fortification that was gravely damaged in World War II. It now houses a fantastic Modern Art Museum.

ON THE WATER

Outdoor activity in Poznań is dominated by its four lakes. For a day out in nature, head through Sołacki Park to Rusałka Lake for beaches and swimming. A trail system offers information boards about the site’s history as a World War II internment camp. Biking or jogging further along the trail system can get you to the next lake: Strzeszyn, which also has a small swimming beach.

For more attractions, venture east of the city to Malta Lake any time of the year. In summer, Malta Ski has a mountain coaster, plus lots of family-friendly attractions, while in the winter you can practice skiing and snowboarding using their one lift. Across the lake, the Termy Maltanskie is a big indoor- outdoor water park, or head to the far end for the New Poznań Zoo.

If you’d rather be on the water, then Kierskie Lake northwest of the airport is for you. It is Poznań’s biggest lake and the place for renting boats, water skiing or windsurfing.

SOCCER MATCHES

If you miss catching a live game, Poznań’s football (soccer) team, Lech Poznań, plays at Stadion Poznań. They are one of Poland’s “big five” teams, winning the Polish league numerous times.

Poznan, Poland - August 2021: City stadium, home for Lech Poznan KKS

Lech Poznań plays at Stadion Poznań. (uslatar (Adobe Stock))

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The fandom’s fervor will have you caught up in the excitement. Buy tickets at www.lechpoznan.pl.

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