Tarnow

Tarnów is a charming city located in Poland. It is known for its beautifully preserved Renaissance old town centered around the Market Square (Rynek), boasting a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Key features include the stunning Gothic Cathedral Basilica and numerous historical buildings, offering visitors a picturesque glimpse into Poland’s past.

The Market Square (Rynek)

The heart of the Old Town, this vibrant square is surrounded by colourful historical townhouses with arcades. It’s a perfect place to soak in the atmosphere, sit at a cafe, and admire the architecture. It maintains its medieval layout.

Town Hall (Ratusz)

Located centrally in the Market Square, this impressive Renaissance building is a symbol of the city. It houses a branch of the District Museum, focusing on the history of Tarnów and the region. Its intricate details and tower are highlights.

Tarnow Cathedral (Bazylika Katedralna Narodzenia Najświętszej Maryi Panny)

This majestic Gothic cathedral, located just off the Market Square, is one of Tarnów’s most important historical and architectural landmarks. It houses significant Renaissance tombs of the Tarnowski and Ostrogski families, beautiful chapels, and impressive stained glass windows.

Old Town Architecture

Beyond the Rynek, wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town. You’ll discover a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles, charming courtyards, and historical gates like the “Polish-Hungarian Gate.” The well-preserved layout offers a glimpse into the city’s past.

Tarnow Castle Ruins

Situated on St. Martin’s Hill (Góra Świętego Marcina) just outside the city center, these are the remains of the original castle built by the Tarnowski family. While mostly ruins, the site offers historical context and, more notably, provides panoramic views of Tarnów and the surrounding landscape.

Bimah (Bima)

Located on Nowa Street, the Bimah is the only surviving part of Tarnów’s Great Synagogue, which was destroyed by the Nazis during WWII. It serves as a poignant memorial to the city’s once-large and vibrant Jewish community. Interpretive boards provide historical context.

Jewish Cemetery

One of the oldest and largest Jewish cemeteries in Poland, located on Szpitalna Street. It contains thousands of matzevot (gravestones), many of which are historically significant and beautifully carved. It’s a place for quiet reflection and understanding the depth of Tarnów’s pre-war Jewish history.

District Museum (Muzeum Okręgowe)

This museum has several branches throughout the city, including the Town Hall (history), the Mikołajowski House (art and interiors), and the Ethnographic Museum (Romani culture, housed in a traditional caravan). Visiting its various locations gives a deeper insight into the region’s culture and heritage.

Strzelecki Park

Tarnów’s main city park, offering a green escape. It’s home to the mausoleum of General Józef Bem, a national hero of Poland and Hungary, and provides pleasant walking paths and recreational areas.