Amy Abroad: Trip to Poland reveals beauty, brutal history

Poland, perhaps the most underrated country in Europe, is home to the charming, colorful city of Krakow. Although it is not the capital, Krakow is known to be the leading center of academic, artistic and cultural life in Poland. My family and I recently spent the weekend in Krakow, aimlessly strolling the streets and appreciating the history and growth of Polish history and culture.

Upon our arrival to Krakow, we first explored Europe’s largest medieval market square in the heart of the city. With the Town Hall Tower and Saint Mary’s Basilica towering over and shops and restaurants lined all along the exterior, this square adds character, energy and life to the city. Many of the restaurants and markets sell traditional Polish cuisine such as golapkis, beef and rice wrapped in cabbage and beef and coated with tomato sauce; and piergoies, boiled dough stuffed with mushrooms and cabbage and other types of meats and vegetables. Enjoying a traditional Polish meal in the grand Main Square of Krakow couldn’t have been a better way to feel immersed in Polish culture.

Read the full column on SouthCoastToday.com, published on June 13, 2018.