The history of Warsaw is a mixture of a turbulent past, the will to survive, as well as the courage and positive energy of its people. This city by the Vistula River has been pulsating with life for a thousand years!

Though the first traces of the original settlement date back to the turn of the 10th century, the city did not begin to truly flourish until three centuries later, when Old Warsaw was established in the area of what we today call Starówka – the Old Town. Since its population was growing intensively by the decade, the New Town was founded in the 14th century. The Royal Route played a particular role in the development of the city. This regal route now links three of the former royal residencies: the Royal Castle, Łazienki Royal Park, and Wilanów Palace.

In 1596, Warsaw became the capital of Poland, thus becoming the arena of international political games, but also the home to great artists, scientists, and social activists. It is here that the world-famous Fryderyk Chopin and Maria Skłodowska-Curie had their first successes. The metamorphosis the city has undergone over the subsequent centuries is truly amazing.

Independence uprisings, wars, and the ill-fated Warsaw Rising have all cast a deep shadow on the capital’s history. Despite all of this, the city was able to rise from the ashes – a fact that has been recognized by UNESCO by including the Old Town on the World Heritage List. Today, the historical left-bank city of Warsaw is truly captivating, with its charms and discreet elegance. Located in the very heart of a modern, attractive and friendly city, it attracts millions of tourists annually!