Considered the birthplace of the Polish state, Poznań is one of the country’s oldest, most important and most intriguing cities. Shaped by shifting historical eras, the capital of Wielkopolska has emerged as a dynamic centre of Polish culture, commerce and identity. Let’s get you acquainted.
As Poland’s first capital and the site of its earliest cathedral, Poznań holds a unique place in the nation’s history. It was here on Ostrów Tumski that Poland’s first rulers were baptised, laying the foundations of both the state and its Christian roots. Soon after, the city became a thriving medieval trade hub and later a Renaissance pearl - as seen in its peerless Town Hall.
Annexed by Prussia in the 18th century, Poznań was transformed into a military fortress and later a model imperial city under heavy Germanisation. It didn’t take: after WWI, the successful Wielkopolska Uprising swung the region over to Poland and Poznań eagerly hosted the 1929 Polish General Exhibition - a showcase for the reborn nation.
Today Poznań’s history is hidden in its unique mix of Gothic, Renaissance, neoclassical, art nouveau and modernist architecture. Add outstanding infrastructure, lively student life, strong food culture and abundant recreation opportunities, and you have a confident, contemporary city with more to reveal below the surface. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, by exploring our webpages you’ll find everything you need to the enjoy this city, whether it be bars, clubs, restaurants, museums or shopping. Poznaj Poznań and reap the rewards.
