Krakow, the pearl of Polish cities, weaves its history in the stories and legends that fill its streets. Take part in the FIAT-IFTA 2024 Convention in Krakow and discover all the magical symbols and stories of this city!
The Wawel Dragon, the most famous symbol of Krakow, leads the first fiddle. Legend has it that at the foot of Wawel Hill lived a terrible dragon, defeated by a young shoemaker, who tricked him into doom. Today, the dragon figure at the foot of Wawel Hill, which breathes fire from time to time, attracts crowds.
No less well-known symbol are the Krakow Pigeons. Legend has it that they are the knights of Henry IV Probus, enchanted by the witch, who were never disenchanted by the prince's extravagance. These favourite birds of the city, often seen on the Main Market Square, have become a symbol of peace and a pleasant atmosphere.
Lajkonik, a bearded rider dressed in a Tatar costume, is a character with a colorful history. For centuries it has been parading through the streets of Krakow, offering joy and laughter to the inhabitants (it is said that Lajkonik's blowing of the mace guarantees happiness and prosperity). It is a symbol of saving Kraków from the Tatar invasion in the 13th century.
Hejnał, a melody played every full hour day and night, to the four corners of the world, reminds us of the legend of the city's guardian, who warned the inhabitants of danger in 1241, when the Tatars were approaching the city. Legend has it that the guard was hit by an arrow during the game and that is why the sound that can be heard every hour today from the tower of St. Mary's Church ends so abruptly. The church itself is associated with a legend of brotherly rivalry, which explains its architectural peculiarity, which is the uneven height of the towers.
The story of Mr. Twardowski, a scholar and sorcerer who sold his soul to the devil in exchange for endless knowledge, still circulates in the alleys of Krakow and his name is associated with mystery and the power of magic.
Finally, there is the legend of the yellow ciżemka, an inconspicuous shoe which, as legend has it, belonged to a peasant boy named Wawrzek. Apparently, the shoe lay 400 years behind the altar of Veit Stoss in St. Mary's Church. This story is a symbol of the mystery and surprises that the city hides.
Krakow's legends are like colourful threads intertwined in the richness of the history of this magical city, which attracts thousands of tourists at any time of the year. Let yourself be enchanted by the charm of Krakow during a guided tour of the city, which we offer as part of the program of the FIAT-IFTA 2024 Convention!
Check out the agenda and don't hesitate to register for the event!
