Wawel Castle is one of Poland's most historically and culturally significant sites. This fortified residence overlooking the Vistula River in Kraków was the royal seat of Polish kings from the 11th to the early 17th century when the capital was moved to Warsaw.

In the 14th century, King Casimir III the Great substantially expanded the castle. In 1504, King Alexander I rebuilt it in the Renaissance style, much of which we can see today.

Over centuries, the castle has undergone multiple expansions and renovations, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. The Arcaded Courtyard, inspired by Italian architecture, is particularly famous.

Adjacent to the castle, Wawel Cathedral is Poland's national sanctuary. Its crypts contain the tombs of famous Polish monarchs and national heroes.

Together with Kraków's Old Town and the nearby Kazimierz district, Wawel Hill is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list and a must-visit destination in Poland.

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