Kazimierz – The Krakow Jewish District
For almost seven hundred 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, colour 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.
About the tour
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). It is likely that there will be interesting one-off exhibitions on 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.
We will end the walk back in Kazimierz, which today is enjoying a far-reaching renaissance.
Prices and Group Bookings
Price Per Person (up to 10 persons) 225 PLN
Groups over 10 Persons – price negotiable
What’s included in the price?
Private city tour with English speaking guide; tour of Jewish Kazimierz district. Entrance fees not included (10-15 PLN extra per person). Minimum 2 persons required for tour.
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