Welcome to Wroclaw! Market Square and Cathedral Island Tour

Welcome to Wroclaw! I am looking forward to meeting you, and taking you on a tour through my beautiful city. 

Wroclaw's history is complex, but fascinating. Founded at the same time as Krakow, the two cities rivalled eachother in power and wealth. Although today, Krakow steals the spotlight, Wroclaw is slowly making itself known again (through gnomes). 

The cities' immense wealth was built first on trade and then industry. Its economic power drew the attention of its neighbors, who were always next in line to fight over the city. As a result, Poles, Bohemians, Austrians, and Prussians all took turns ruling the city, and developing its current appearance.

On my tour, we step into the shoes of two historical figures, the "heroes" of our tour. The first is Heinrich Rybisch (1485-1544), or "Henry", a wealthy merchant who's deep pockets, ego, and influence brought about the Protestant Reformation. During his life, he would reshape the religious-political landscape of the city and make himself a local legend.

The second, Franz Ludwig von Pfalz-Neuburg (1664-1732), or "Louie", was Wroclaw's bishop, and the representative of Hapsburg power in the city. During his life, he would bring about the Counter Reformation, and supervise the construction of some of Wroclaw's most famous baroque edifices, like the University.

The tour ends in our very own "Vatican City", the Cathedral Island. Here, the bishops of Wroclaw enjoyed complete power, enjoying special judicial privileges, just like that of the Vatican in Rome.

I hope to meet you on my tour!