What is in the jewish quarter in Krakow? Where is?

Many people visiting Krakow know that the city center is centered around the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) and the Old Town. They are also aware that Krakow has a historic Jewish Quarter. But what exactly is the Jewish Quarter in Krakow? What is it about? What is it called? Is it worth visiting, and is it safe? Here is our detailed guide to the Jewish Quarter Kazimierz in Krakow.

Where is the Jewish Quarter in Krakow?

The so-called Jewish Quarter in Krakow is called Kazimierz. It is actually an area located just a short walk (about 10-15 minutes) from the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), the heart of Krakow. You can easily reach it on foot or by taking a tram for just a few stops.

The area known as the Jewish Quarter is called Kazimierz. Historically, it was a separate town founded by King Casimir the Great (Kazimierz Wielki), hence its name. Over the centuries, it became a settlement for Polish Jews, especially after King Jan Olbracht issued a decree in 1495 allowing Jewish settlement in the area of the former village of Bawół.

Kazimierz lost its independent town status and was incorporated into Krakow in 1800. Today, the Jewish Quarter is home to seven synagogues, four significant churches (including the stunning Corpus Christi Church and the National Pantheon at the Pauline Church on Skałka), the historic Wolnica Square (formerly the town’s market square), and numerous restaurants and cafes catering to tourists.

Generally speaking, Kazimierz is not the most beautiful part of Krakow. The famous Plac Nowy (New Square) is rather shabby and unattractive, and the main street of Kazimierz, Józefa Street, is also considered one of the less appealing areas in the city.

Zapiekanki on Kazimierz

Zapiekanki (Polish open-faced baguettes) are popular among tourists, but we do not recommend trying them at Okrąglak on Plac Nowy. They are overpriced and of mediocre quality. You can find much better zapiekanki elsewhere in Krakow at lower prices and higher quality

Many restaurants and clubs in Kazimierz are tourist traps. However, there are a few excellent dining options, such as Zazie Bistro, Folga, Karakter, Nolio, and best restaurant in Poland, Bottiglieria 1881. When choosing a place to eat in Kazimierz, it’s worth checking online reviews, especially for venues on Szeroka Street. Kazimierz is also home to famous cafes like Alchemia, Cytat, Singer, and Eszeweria.

Is the Jewish Quarter in Krakow safe?

Like most places in Poland and Krakow, the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter is generally very safe. There are no aggressive immigrants or gangs of beggars targeting tourists. However, as in any tourist area, it’s advisable to keep an eye on your belongings, especially when sitting in cafes or restaurants. Overall, there is no need to worry about safety in Kazimierz, just as in other parts of Krakow.

Is Kazimierz in Krakow worth visiting?

Kazimierz is not a place that will leave a lasting impression or evoke deep emotional experiences. It is not particularly beautiful, and aside from the Corpus Christi Church, its landmarks are not especially attractive. One interesting spot is the Museum of Engineering and Technology, but the rest of the area, including the touristy Plac Nowy, is neither charming nor particularly fascinating.

Seen on the first photo in the article, the courtyard/passage featured in Steven Spielberg’s film Schindler’s List located between Meiselsa and Józefa streets is also a disappointment—it is poorly maintained and not particularly impressive, much like the rest of Kazimierz.

Summary:

• Kazimierz is the historic Jewish Quarter of Krakow, located a short walk from the Main Market Square.
• It was once a separate town founded by King Casimir the Great and became a center of Jewish life in Krakow.
• Key landmarks include seven synagogues, the Corpus Christi Church, and Wolnica Square.
• Kazimierz is not the most beautiful part of Krakow but has a unique atmosphere and is generally safe for tourists.
• Be cautious of tourist traps, especially on Szeroka Street, but don’t miss out on some excellent dining and cafe options. Always check online reviews first if you go to a restaurant in Krakow, preferably based only on those recommended in the Michelin Guide or located in good hotels.
• The area is historically significant, though it may not leave a lasting visual impression.
• Kazimierz is a place to explore for its history and culture rather than its aesthetics. It will take several minutes to walk the entire Kazimierz area of Krakow. There is actually nothing interesting here.

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