Historical Walking Tour of Nowa Huta with Best Krakow Walks
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical activity; suitable for most fitness levels
Overview
Discover the unique socialist architecture and history of Nowa Huta in this engaging guided tour. Uncover Poland’s post-war urban experiment just outside Kraków.
Nowa Huta – A Guided Tour of a Utopian Socialist City
From 7 years old • 2 hours • A unique look at Krakow's communist era district
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2-hour walking tour of Nowa Huta, a unique post-war district in Kraków. Discover its monumental neo-classical architecture, delve into Poland's recent history, and explore significant sites like the first church in this "godless city." Experience the intriguing contrast between old traditions and socialist ideals.
Discover Nowa Huta, a district built after World War II by the communists as an ideal socialist urban area. A truly unique yet little-known part of Kraków.
Duration
2 hours
Prices
- Prices are shown by group size selection
- Minimum age is 7 years old
About
Highlights:
- Discover this truly unique yet little-known part of Kraków
- Learn more about the recent history of Poland
- Admire monumental neo-classical architecture of the Stalinist era
"Nowa Huta” in English means “new steel mill”. This mammoth manufacturing plant, along with a residential district for the steel mill workers, was built on the initiative of the communist government after the war. The district was meant to contrast with the ‘old’ Kraków with its religiosity, traditions, and anti-socialist sentiments. Nowa Huta was to be a city of the ‘new people’, those living without God, trusting in the ideals of communism and the guiding role of the Communist Party.
On this 2-hour Nowa Huta walking tour, a local guide takes us through the construction history and utopian concepts of this socialist city.
We start our stroll from Plac Centralny (Central Square) once, bearing the name of Lenin, followed by Aleja Róż (Avenue of Roses), the representative street of Nowa Huta, and proceed further into the district. Throughout the tour, we will become acquainted with symbolic places for the modern history of Kraków.
We will visit, among others, the site of the battle for the cross and the first church in the “godless city”, as well as locations connected with the legacy and strikes of “Solidarność” (the nationwide trade union established in 1980 to defend workers’ rights). Nowa Huta is sure to surprise us with its monumental neo-classical architecture of the Stalinist era.
More info
We will start at Plac Centralny im. Ronalda Reagana (Ronald Reagan Central Square) by the “Solidarnosc” statue and end at Our Lady Queen of Poland church, known as "The Lord's Ark".
What to bring
Comfortable shoes
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
This walking tour covers significant ground, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring a camera
Capture the striking architecture and street scenes of Nowa Huta.
Check the weather forecast
Be prepared for rain or sun; dress accordingly for a comfortable experience.
Arrive early
Getting downtown a few minutes before the start ensures a relaxed beginning.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Birds common to urban parks
- Squirrels in public squares
History
Nowa Huta was designed in the 1950s to showcase socialist ideals through architecture and urban planning.
Conservation
The district's preservation of its historical structures offers insight into Poland's recent history and supports sustainable tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kraków
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for covering significant ground comfortably.
Portable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the walk across urban terrain.
Notebook or smartphone for notes
Take notes or photos to remember key sites.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress for the weather, whether rain or shine, for an enjoyable experience.