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Old Town Warsaw Photo Tour

By , About.com Guide

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Old Town Market Square, Warsaw
Old Town Market Square, Warsaw

Old Town Market Square, Warsaw

Kerry Kubilius, licensed to About.com
Old Town Warsaw's Market Square, or Old Town Market Place, is the heart of this historic district. This square was reconstructed after WWII to reattain its Renaissance-era look. Each building has architectural details that signify something about its history or significance - be sure to examine them more closely when you visit the square.

In the middle of the square stands the Warsaw mermaid monument. The mermaid, a symbol of the city, was not always located in the square. It was only in recent years that she found a permanent home here, but the legend that connects her with the city makes the heart of it a fitting place of residence.

The Warsaw History Museum tells the story of the Polish capital city and impresses upon visitors the amount of destruction - and reconstruction - that took place in Warsaw as a result of WWII.

Restaurants - some of which have long and illustrious histories - open up terrace seating in fine weather. Dining on Old Town Market Square can be pricier than elsewhere, but stopping for a snack or a rest will allow you to take in its atmosphere.

If you're looking for souvenirs, be sure to step into the shops on Old Town Market Square. For example, PolArt is three rooms of Polish folk art, including Polish folk costumes, paper art, textiles, dolls, and traditionally decorated eggs.

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