Places linked to a character to visit Poland

Throughout the year, crowds of pilgrims flock to the entrance of the house where Karol Wojtiła lived with his family. The house is located on the rynek and the main entrance, right next to the statue made in his honor. His birthplace unveils a state-of-the-art, four-story exhibition tracing Wojtiła's life and work in Poland until his departure in 1978. On display are photos, documents, personal items as well as clothing worn during his pontificate.

This imposing building, whose construction began at the end of the 16th century on a project by Bernardo Morando, was the residence of Jan Zamoyski, his family and his successors. Unfortunately, it was rebuilt in the 19th century by the Russians, who installed a military hospital there, and lost its delicate Renaissance splendor, leaving only its imposing silhouette. Since 1918, it has housed the city's court. In front of the palace stands the equestrian statue of Jan Zamoyski, built in 2005 for the 400th anniversary of his death.

Józef Mehoffer (1860-1946) was one of the greatest artists of the Polish Secession movement. In the 1930s, he bought this absolutely magnificent building and turned it into a musical and literary salon, the atmosphere of which can be clearly perceived during the visit. During the Second World War, he produced several works here, as the Nazis had forbidden him access to his studio at the Academy of Fine Arts. Some of his stained glass windows, paintings, projects and drawings can be seen here. The house has a pleasant garden and a café with terrace.

Frédéric Chopin's birthplace has been restored. Its museum exhibits furniture, tapestries, prints and musical instruments that belonged to the Chopin family. Numerous concerts are held here in summer, inside the venerable manor house in front of the great composer's piano. The world's greatest musicians perform the Polish icon's most famous scores, with windows open to the crowds waiting outside to their delight.