Time to Explore Warsaw

My classes were supposed to start from October, so I had 2, 3 days to explore Warsaw. I have already described in my earlier blog how well Warsaw had treated me for my journey from the bus stop to my hostel.

First thing first, buy a 24 hour transport ticket. It will cost around 5 Euros. I used the subways most of time, they are the best. Go to the Centrum Station, which is like the city centre of the city. As soon as you will get out of the station, the first thing which most probably is going to grab your attention is the Palace of Culture and Science. It has to, because it’s the tallest building in Poland and Eighth tallest in the European Union. I referred to internet for some quick facts and found out that it has 42 floors and has a height of around 237 metres. It is used for cultural, educational and business purposes. I remember meeting a girl later who was studying in a university in that Palace. Isn’t it kind of cool? I mean you are studying in one of the tallest buildings, I would have bragged about it had I been taking classes there!

The tall golden-cream coloured building with a clock on it can be resembled to a tower as well. (I tried my best to explain the colour, the picture will help though). I had the opportunity of seeing it at night as well. It looked more superior in the darkness with its colour changed to purplish blue in the lights.

The other buildings around were mostly not so old. It was a perfect place to see the old and new architecture style of Poland. I am not very fond of modern architecture therefore I continued my walk towards the old city centre which was on a small walking distance.

So we all know that our earth revolves around the sun and not the vice versa. But who discovered that? Polish astronomer and mathematician Nicolaus Copernicus. Of course he deserves all the honours for his discovery and this monument is just one them.

I kept walking following the navigation and there was the gate of the university which is the dream of so many students around the globe. It was even mine, but unfortunately my home university was not in any agreement with University of Warsaw.

On my way I came across a number of memorials depicting the harshness of World War II. There were written stories, paintings and statements of order by Hitler. It was heart wrenching. But it would also make you realize how long way Poland has come in all these years. It has succeeded to somehow collect itself.

From what I see in Poland, I can infer that the Polish people are very close to the religion. I was seeing a Church after every 5 minutes perhaps. If you want to understand the Baroque architecture, examine Polish Churches. I kept confusing them with each other.  So here is the Church of St. Joseph of the Visitationists which was opened in 1761.

Next to the Church is Monument of Cardinal Stefan Wyszynskiwho was the Primate of Poland. He is also known for helping in establishing a separation between state and church.

The next I see was the well guarded Presidential Palace. I liked the pure white building whose style was unique than the other buildings around. 

I began to enjoy my walk, because there was something new to see after like every other street or signal.  This time I saw the Roman Catholic Carmelite Church-  Another instance of Baroque architecture. I don’t know why there were so many cars outside. It was not Sunday thats for sure. 

Then I saw another monument. It was surrounded by greenery and flowers. It was occupying quite a big area. Therefore I did a quick research and it was revealed that I was actually standing in front of Monument to Adam Mickiewiczwho is regarded as the greatest Polish romantic poet of 19th century. 

And after that I reached what I have been waiting for and dreamt of before coming to Poland.  The Castle Square of Warsaw. Unfortunately the castle was going through some repairs. But there was this girl playing beautiful violin to add to this experience. I am not a very good photographer but I managed to capture all in this picture, the Castle, the girl and yes the Sigismund's Column. 

I started exploring the narrow streets of Old Town. There were full of small shops and stalls. From souvenirs to donuts, they had everything there. In one of these narrow streets there was this Church of Jesuits.I found it very different than the churches I have seen prior to it, in terms of architecture. 

And then finally I reached the Old Town Market Place Centre and here is the mermaid- The Symbol of Warsaw. I knew that it was going to one of my favourite squares; full of music, happy children, tourists and surrounded by colourful buildings and lots of food. 

I continued my walk, and found another crowded yet interesting place. Warsaw Barbicanis a major tourist attraction as it is one of those few parts of the historic fortification which once encircled Warsaw. 

Now I was going away from the old town.  On my way I passed by the Church of the Holy Spirit and in the second photo as you see the magnificent Field Cathedral of the Polish Army. 

The next upsetting yet true was the story which was being narrated by the Warsaw uprising monument. It depicted the insurgents which battled with the Nazi Occupiers in the August of 1944. Anyone who has studied history and has knowledge of World War II would spend at least a moment of silence and commemoration there. 

I ended my tour with this amazing vegetarian burger. I consider that one of two day trip is quite enough to see Warsaw. And yes just to mention you are going to see a lot of Desi People- South Asians in Warsaw. Well, we are everywhere! 

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