Jelenia Gora

Jelenia Góra is a picturesque city located in southwestern Poland, specifically in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship. Often considered the “gateway to the Karkonosze Mountains” (Giant Mountains), it’s a popular base for hiking, skiing, and exploring the region. The city itself boasts a charming historic Old Town with well-preserved architecture, including a beautiful Market Square (Rynek) and the historic Cieplice Spa district, known for its thermal springs. Its scenic setting, combining urban charm with mountain proximity, makes it a significant tourist and health resort destination.

Jelenia Gora Old Town and Market Square (Rynek)

The heart of the city, the Market Square is surrounded by beautifully preserved, colorful burgher houses with arcades. In its center stands the impressive Town Hall and the iconic Neptune Fountain. It’s a vibrant place for a stroll, enjoying local cafes and soaking in the atmosphere.

City Walls and Defensive Towers

Jelenia Góra retains significant remnants of its medieval defensive walls. You can walk along parts of them and explore several towers, including the Grodzka Tower (Prison Tower) and the Wojciech Tower (Witch Tower). They offer a glimpse into the city’s past and provide nice views.

Basilica of St. Erasmus and St. Pancras (Bazylika św. Erazma i Pankracego)

This is the main parish church in Jelenia Góra, a grand Gothic structure dating back to the 14th century, though extensively rebuilt over the centuries. Its impressive interior features beautiful altars, chapels, and stained glass windows.

Church of the Holy Cross (Kościół Podwyższenia Krzyża Świętego)

A magnificent Baroque church located on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the Karkonosze Mountains. Built for Protestants in the late 17th century, it’s known for its unique elliptical layout and impressive interior decorations.

Cieplice Spa (Uzdrowisko Cieplice Śląskie-Zdrój)

Now a district of Jelenia Góra, Cieplice is the oldest thermal spa in Poland, with a history dating back to the 13th century. It’s famous for its healing thermal waters. Visitors can enjoy modern spa facilities, a beautiful spa park, and visit the Natural History Museum.

Karkonosze Museum (Muzeum Karkonoskie)

Located in Jelenia Góra, this regional museum is dedicated to the history, ethnography, and geology of the Karkonosze (Giant Mountains) region and Jelenia Góra itself. It has extensive collections, including a notable exhibit on glass art.

Chojnik Castle (Zamek Chojnik)

Though not in the city center, Chojnik Castle is a must-see medieval ruin perched atop a volcanic mountain within the Karkonosze National Park, easily accessible from Jelenia Góra. It requires a scenic hike to reach but rewards visitors with breathtaking views and a fascinating history, including legends of its cursed princess.

Palaces of the Valley of Palaces and Gardens (Dolina Pałaców i Ogrodów)

Jelenia Góra is the gateway to this unique region, where over 30 magnificent palaces, castles, and manor houses, many beautifully restored, are scattered across the landscape. Notable examples include:

Wojanów Palace (Pałac Wojanów): A stunning Renaissance palace with a large park, now a luxury hotel and conference center.

Łomnica Palace (Pałac Łomnica): An 18th-century Baroque palace complex housing a museum, traditional crafts workshops, and restaurants.

Pakoszów Palace (Pałac Pakoszów): Another beautiful historical residence often open for tours or events.