Opole: Old Town, Poland
Opole is one of the oldest and most historically significant Polish cities, founded at the turn of the 12th and 13th centuries, and it once served as one of the historical capitals of Upper Silesia. Today, it proudly holds the title of the capital of the Opolskie Voivodeship and is renowned throughout Poland as the vibrant host of the annual National Polish Song Festival. The city’s old town is a true gem, characterized by its fascinating architecture, well-preserved buildings, and a wonderfully colorful aesthetic that makes it a delight to explore.
The city's rich history as a ducal capital is evident at every turn, from the remnants of its Piast-era castle to the charming medieval layout of its market square. Despite the passage of time and historical conflicts, Opole has done an excellent job of revitalizing its historic core, blending old-world charm with modern urban energy. Its unique location on the Oder River, with a branch called the Młynówka flowing through the city, adds to its picturesque appeal, offering beautiful riverside views reminiscent of Venice.
Parking in Opole next to the National Centre of Polish Song
As is our custom, we always seek out convenient parking near the Old Town to make our sightseeing as seamless as possible. One of the best options that fits this criterion is the parking lot on Norbert Barlickiego street, which is perfectly situated opposite the National Centre of Polish Song and the Millennial Amphitheater, right next to the scenic Castle Pond (1; GPS: 50.6664889, 17.9177603). While this parking lot is not particularly large, arriving early in the morning almost guarantees you a free spot. It is a paid parking zone, so be sure to pay the fee at the parking meter upon arrival.
Alternatively, if you're looking for a larger, more modern option, it is worth considering the very spacious underground parking lot on Copernicus Square, located directly under the Solaris Center shopping mall (2; GPS: 50.6690014, 17.9271803). This multi-level facility offers plenty of space and is an excellent choice for a worry-free visit, regardless of the time of day. You can find the most current price list and more information on the Solaris Center website, making it easy to plan your visit in advance.
Towards the Main Market
Having parked at the National Center of the Polish Song, our walk began with the interesting Castle Pond and the historic Piast Tower. The tranquil Castle Pond (A; GPS: 50.6664786, 17.9190292) was originally the moat surrounding the Piast Castle. Today, it has been beautifully transformed into an attractive recreational area, and we found it to be a very pleasant spot to start our tour. The Piast Tower (B; GPS: 50.6673422, 17.9193831), standing at about 40 meters tall, is the last remaining element of the former Piast Castle. It is a bit of a shame that it is overshadowed by the modern, less-than-attractive building of the Provincial Office next to it. Its external architectural details do not make this location particularly interesting during the day, as the contemporary surroundings can feel a bit overwhelming. However, the tower becomes much more attractive after twilight, thanks to its beautiful lighting that highlights its historical presence.
To reach the heart of the Old Town, we crossed the picturesque Castle Bridge (C; GPS: 50.6675192, 17.9208075), which spans the Młynówka, a branch of the Oder river. As we crossed, we couldn't help but admire the so-called "Opole Venice"—a charming row of colorful tenement houses that line the river, their reflections shimmering in the water. After crossing the bridge, we passed Helena Lehr Square and the impressive Memorial of Karol Musioł (D; GPS: 50.6677231, 17.9212633), a revered figure who served as the city's outstanding Chairman of the City Council from 1952 to 1965. This walk provides a fantastic introduction to Opole’s unique blend of historical charm and scenic urban landscape.
The Main Market in Opole
The Main Market, which has preserved its medieval layout, is the vibrant heart of the city's Old Town. Dominating the square is the large and elegant Town Hall building, in front of which stands a striking monument of a man on horseback. This statue depicts the Prince of Opole and Racibórz, who lived at the beginning of the 13th century. He was a member of the Piast dynasty and is credited with founding Opole, making this monument a central tribute to the city's origins (E; GPS: 50.6682381, 17.9224622). The entire square is surrounded by a beautiful collection of colorful tenement houses, many with elegant arcades, some of which were faithfully rebuilt after the devastation of World War II.
This lively square serves as a focal point for both locals and tourists, lined with cafes and restaurants where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere. The blend of historic architecture and vibrant facades creates a truly charming setting. The Town Hall itself is a masterpiece of architecture, and the monument of the founder adds a sense of historical gravitas to the modern-day hustle and bustle. The arcades along some of the buildings provide sheltered walkways and add to the square's unique character, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and a photo session.
University of Opole
From the Main Market, we walked along Krakowska Street, passing through the charming Small Market. Our path then led us up a hill to the impressive campus of the University of Opole. The main building, known as Collegium Maius, is particularly notable, with the beautiful Chapel of St. Adalbert located right next to it (F; GPS: 50.6687533, 17.9257561). Although the chapel is not available for visitors, its historical and architectural presence is a testament to the university's deep roots and academic heritage.
The University of Opole is a significant institution, contributing to the city's youthful and dynamic atmosphere. The campus itself is a mix of historic and modern buildings, creating a unique urban environment. Its central location on the hill provides a sense of prominence and offers great views of the surrounding city. The area is filled with students, giving it a lively and intellectual buzz, and the beautifully maintained grounds are a pleasure to walk through.
The Artists Square on the University Hill
On the University Hill, you can discover the delightful Artists Square (G; GPS: 50.6693431, 17.9259975), which is home to a collection of sculptures dedicated to outstanding Polish artists. The statues are presented in engaging poses and are strategically located, making them seem almost alive and inviting. It's a wonderful place to take pictures with these bronze figures, who appear to be interacting with their surroundings. The interactive nature of this open-air gallery makes it a fun and memorable part of any visit to the university district.
From the square, we walked back alongside the interesting building called Collegium Minus (H; GPS: 50.6696033, 17.9258928), which is also part of the University and currently serves administrative functions. Nearby, you can admire a beautifully restored statue of Saint Christopher from 1867. In front of it, there is an 18th-century figure of Saint Nepomuk. Our path then took us past the impressive Church of Our Lady of Sorrows and Saint Adalbert (I; GPS: 50.6690694, 17.9253403) as we made our way toward Daszyński Square.
The Ceres Fountain on Daszyński Square
After exploring the university area, we walked through the Small Market and then followed the streets of Zwierzyniecka, Ozima, and Hugo Kołłątaja to reach Daszyński Square. There, we were greeted by a stunning, multi-tiered sculpture: the beautiful Ceres Fountain (J; GPS: 50.6654994, 17.9275344). This masterpiece in the Art Nouveau style was created in 1907. As we learned from a local source, the lower sculptures showcase a rich tapestry of local life, depicting two fishermen with a net, a miner with a pickaxe and a woman with cereal stalks, and a woman with a basket of fruit. These figures symbolize the fishing, limestone industry, and agriculture that have historically defined the Opole area.
Above them, on a grand pedestal, stands the graceful figure of Ceres, the Roman goddess of the harvest, holding a child and a spindle. The fountain is not just a work of art but a historical document celebrating the city's industrial and agricultural heritage. The square itself is a peaceful oasis, visited by people who want to relax and escape from the urban traffic and noise. Its tranquil atmosphere and artistic beauty make it a truly special place to rest and admire the intricate details of the sculpture.
Gastronomy in Opole
Opole's gastronomy offers a rich taste of traditional Silesian and Polish cuisine, with a focus on hearty, comforting dishes. The city’s location in Upper Silesia means its culinary traditions are a blend of Polish, German, and Czech influences, creating a unique and flavorful experience for visitors.
What to Try?
- Śląska rolada: A quintessential Silesian dish consisting of a beef roulade filled with bacon, pickle, and onion, served with `kluski śląskie` (Silesian potato dumplings) and red cabbage.
- Pierogi: These famous Polish dumplings are a must-try. You can find them with various fillings, from meat and cheese to mushrooms and cabbage.
- Żurek: A traditional sour rye soup with sausage, potatoes, and boiled egg, often served in a bread bowl.
- Kiełbasa Opolska: Look for this local sausage, which is a protected regional specialty known for its high quality and flavor.
- Kołocz śląski: A traditional Silesian yeast cake, often with a cheese, poppy seed, or apple filling. It is a perfect dessert or snack.
Where to Eat?
- Market Square: The main market square is lined with numerous restaurants and cafes, offering a wide range of options from traditional Polish cuisine to Italian and international dishes.
- "Opole Venice" Area: The charming tenement houses along the Młynówka river are home to a number of romantic restaurants with terraces offering beautiful views of the water.
- Local Pubs (Karczma): For a more authentic and rustic experience, visit a local tavern to enjoy traditional Silesian dishes and a local beer.
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