The capitals of Eastern Europe – despite the process of modernization in recent decades – maintain their old style, almost suspended in time. Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is one of the most popular cities for its nostalgic and romantic charm.
Don’t miss
Market Square
Today, as in past centuries, Market Square continues to be the buzzing centre of Warsaw life. Here you can take a break at the bars and restaurants in the square. The statue of a mermaid stands out in the middle of the square. Legend has it she was captured in the River Vistula and then freed, and today she is a lookout for the Polish city. The mermaid is also the symbol of Warsaw.
Radziwill Palace
It is the official residence of the President of Poland. Radziwill Palace, an imposing 19th-century historic building, is one of the largest and most fascinating examples of neoclassical style in the country. Here, on July 24, 1818, Fryderyk Chopin gave his first concert, at the age of 8.
Palace on the Isle
One of the most beautiful places in Warsaw to see is the Palace on the Isle at Lazienski Krolewskye Park (Royal Baths Park). The building was built in the 18th century as a royal residence. Inside you can admire 10 rooms, including a large and opulent Ballroom adorned with gold and crystal chandeliers.
Royal Castle in Warsaw
In the heart of the Old Town the Royal Castle in Warsaw stands imperious. Its original construction dates back to the 14th century but it has undergone several reconstructions throughout history: the last after being greatly damaged by German bombing during World War II. You can visit it inside, where there are several art collections, among which works by Rembrandt and Canaletto stand out.
Praga
It is a district in Warsaw that has no relevance to the Czech capital. Its name comes from prażyć, which means “to burn” and to build it an entire forest was in fact burned down. The neighbourhood was redeveloped to become an attraction for many visitors when, at the beginning of the new millennium, film director Roman Polanski chose it for the setting of scenes for his film ‘The Pianist’, which he won three Academy Awards for. Today it is a trendy neighbourhood where artists and photographers hang out, full of galleries and open-air museums that make it unique and original.
Travel Documents
Identity Card
An identity card valid for leaving the country allows entry into European Union countries. However, please note that there have been reports of difficulties in some countries with the recognition of renewed and stamped paper identity cards, as well as the refusal of electronic ID cards renewed with a certificate issued by the municipality.
Passport
An ordinary passport is valid for all countries whose governments are recognized by the Italian one, except for any legal restrictions, and can be obtained by all citizens of the Republic. A passport is issued (and renewed) by the police and abroad, by diplomatic and consular representatives. It is valid for 10 years, but in some cases provided for by current legislation, this validity may be shortened.
For more information, see www.poliziadistato.it
