Let Poznan surprise you

Poznan – one of the oldest cities in Poland – enraptures the visitor with its charm, history and culture, intertwined with its academic excellence and modern outlook. Part of the beauty of the city lies in aimlessly wondering through the network of streets and alleyways, making chance discoveries from one turn to the next.

But there is much more to see and experience in this city, which was founded over a thousand years ago. It is a major literary and cultural centre, where you can visit scientific institutions and go to opera, drama and dance performances at a variety of impressive theatres. Poznan is also home to the world famous Boys’ and Men’s Choir, which is conducted by Stefan Stuligrosz. Music lovers come to Poznan for the Contemporary Music Festivals as well as for the world-famous Henryk Wieniawski violin and violin-making competitions.

Poznan is also a shoppers’ paradise. In its arcades and shopping malls you will find top brand-name products from around the world as well as locally-produced goods. There is one shopping centre you definitely don’t want to miss: The Stary Browar. This award-winning shopping mall in the heart of Poznań continues to be a success with both shoppers and those seeking a cultural experience. The Courtyard of Art was opened with an exhibition by leading Italian designer and architect Alessandro Mendini.

Where West meets East

Many visitors to Central Europe are unfamiliar with Poznan. However, those that do business in this part of the world know the city well as Poland’s trade fair capital. Poznań’s rich commercial tradition can be traced back to 1254, when King Przemyslaw I granted special privileges to traders. At that time the main sources of wealth for Poznań’s citizens were crafts and trade.

In 14th century the city began to develop as an international trading centre. Poznan International Fair upholds this tradition to the present day – it is Poland’s biggest venue for trade fairs, shows and exhibitions. Every year there are 40 specialist events, attracting thousands of producers, trading companies, academic institutions and research institutes from around the world.

The Conference Of the Parties – COP 14 – will be held at the Poznan International Fair site. Other sites worth visiting in Poznan:

• The Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul (the oldest in the country)
• The Town Hall
• The Raczynski Library
• Old Market Square
• The Museum of Musical Instruments
• The National Museum
• The Zoological Garden

For more information, please check out the city website: www.poznan.pl