A true hidden gem of Europe that is often overlooked, Poland is a beautiful country that has everything it takes to impress the traveller in you. Be it majestic mountains, wild scenery, picturesque lakes, snow-clad peaks or national parks, Poland has it all. Landlocked from all sides apart from its northwest, Poland shares its borders with Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania and Russia. The country opens up to the Baltic Sea on its northwest. Warsaw is the capital and largest city of Poland.
Poland’s history can be traced back to the founding of a Polish state in 966 by Mieszko I, and later to 1025 when the Kingdom of Poland was established. Poland merged with Lithuania during the 14th-16th century and remained powerful till the 1700’s, until a partition was carried out between Austria, Russia and Prussia. By the end of WWI in 1918, Poland regained its independence. However, it was invaded by Germany in 1939 and became a communist state in 1945, after being backed and rescued by Russia. Ultimately, it was only in 1989 that the Marxist government was overthrown and Poland established itself as a democracy.
While almost 90% of the population is Polish, the remainder ethnic groups include Ukrainians, Germans, Belarusians, Silesians, Kashubians and more. Almost 95% of the population can be identified as Roman Catholics, while the remaining includes Jews, Protestants, Polish Orthodox, Russian and Greek Orthodox. Polish is the official language spoken in Poland, other languages include German, Russian, French and English.
Cracow is the most coveted city of Poland, stunning visitors with its monasteries, churches, abbeys, medieval castles, the magnificent old towns and charming architecture. Warsaw is the capital and the largest city located on the banks of the Vistula River.
