The Great Tours: Experiencing Medieval Europe Season 1 Episode 17 Krak?w?The Royal Way

The Great Tours: Experiencing Medieval Europe season 1 episode 17 titled "Kraków - The Royal Way" takes viewers on a journey through one of Europe's most historically rich cities. Kraków, the former capital of Poland, served as the royal seat of power for centuries, and its architecture, culture, and traditions reflect this rich heritage.

The episode follows the Royal Way, which is a route that the Polish kings would take on their way to coronations and other important events. It starts at the stunning Wawel Castle, where viewers get to see the grandeur of the royal residence. The castle is home to several exquisite chapels, a treasury, and lavish state rooms that showcase the wealth and power of the Polish monarchy.

The tour continues through the Old Town, where viewers get to see how the city's medieval character has been preserved. One of the key features of this section of the Royal Way is the Cloth Hall, which is a 14th-century structure that served as the center of Kraków's bustling trade scene. Visitors can still see merchants selling goods in the hall, and the episode showcases some of the beautiful crafts and souvenirs that can be found there.

Next, viewers are taken to St. Mary's Basilica, which is home to one of the most stunning Gothic interiors in Europe. The episode explores the history of the church and its beautiful altarpiece, which is the largest Gothic wooden sculpture in the world. The church also has a famous bugle call that is played every hour from the tower, a tradition that has been upheld for centuries.

As the tour continues, viewers get to explore the hidden corners of Kraków, including some lesser-known churches and monuments. One such building is the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, which was built in the Baroque style and is famous for its beautiful frescoes and gilded altars. Another highlight is the Jagiellonian University, which was founded in 1364 and is one of the oldest universities in Europe. The episode takes viewers through the university's stunning buildings, which house some of the world's most valuable scientific and cultural collections.

The tour ends at the stunning Market Square, which is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. The square is surrounded by beautiful townhouses and features a large central tower that offers stunning views of the city. The episode explores the various festivals and events that take place in the square throughout the year, including the famous Christmas market.

Overall, "Kraków - The Royal Way" is a fascinating journey through one of Europe's most iconic cities. The episode highlights the rich history, culture, and architecture of Kraków, and takes viewers on a journey through its hidden corners and secret treasures. From the grandeur of the Wawel Castle to the bustling Market Square, this episode is a must-see for anyone interested in medieval history and architecture.