Torun – The Former Capital of the Teutonic Order

Torun is a city in Northern Poland and one of the most underrated tourist destinations in the region. Located near the Vistula River and close to the Baltic Sea, Torun has a long history as it was once the former capital of the Teutonic Order. As one of the most important cities in Central Europe during the Middle Ages, Torun is now a vibrant city with plenty of cultural and historical attractions, such as its old town, Teutonic castle, churches, cathedrals and museums.

What to See and Do in Torun?

When visiting Torun, it is highly recommended to start your journey in the old town. Built during the 1300s and 1400s, the old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and is one of the best preserved Medieval cities in Europe. A great way to explore the old town is by taking one of the guided tours. Here, you can admire the Gothic architecture and get a glimpse of the city’s unique history.

In the old town, it is also worth visiting Torun’s most iconic landmark, the Teutonic castle. Originally constructed in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights as a fortress and residence, today, it stands as an impressive museum, where visitors can learn about Torun’s history and see works of art from different periods.

Next, visitors should explore Torun’s charming cobbled streets, where you will find plenty of cafes, restaurants and boutiques. Here, visitors should make sure to taste some of Torun’s specialties such as Toruneckie pierogi (a traditional dumpling dish) and Zurek soup (a sour soup made with barley, sausage and sauerkraut).

Finally, visitors should stop by some of Torun’s churches and cathedrals and appreciate its architecture. Some of these religious buildings include St Mary’s Church, St John’s Church, St Peter’s Cathedral and St James Cathedral. Additionally, you can visit several museums located in the town, such as the Town Museum where you can learn about Torun’s history, or explore the Nicolaus Copernicus Museum which showcases the life and works of this famous scientist who was born here.

Conclusion

Torun is a must-visit destination in Poland. With its incredible old town that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its numerous churches, cathedrals and museums, there are plenty of things to see and do. Whether it’s tasting traditional Polish dishes or exploring the Teutonic castle, Torun has something for everyone. To find out more about this fascinating city, check out this website – it has lots of useful information on what to see and do in Torun.

Torun – The Former Capital of the Teutonic Order: An Insider’s Guide

Torun is a splendid city located in northern Poland over the Vistula River. It rose to prominence in the medieval era as the former capital of the Teutonic Order. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site with an impressive array of attractions for modern-day travelers.

Local Attractions

Torun’s Old Town is its standout attraction. The medieval architecture and cobbled streets take visitors back in time to the city’s golden era. One of the main features of the Old Town is the imposing Gothic Old Town Hall, complete with astronomer Copernicus’s statue, who was born in Torun. Other must-see local attractions include:

• The Cathedral of SS. John the Evangelist and John the Baptist – a splendid Gothic structure with stunning interior details
• The Gingerbread Museum – explore the history of the city’s famous gingerbread cookies and even try your hand at making them
• Nicolaus Copernicus Museum – an homage to the famous astronomer, this museum is located in his birthplace and boasts numerous exhibits dedicated to his life and work
• The Torun Fortress – a 19th-century fortress that now houses an archaeological exhibit

Dining Spots

Torun boasts plenty of restaurant options that will tingle your taste buds. In fact, the city is known for some exceptional cuisine, including the area’s gingerbread cookies. Here are some of the top dining spots to make a stop during your visit:

• Pod Aniolami – a quirky restaurant in a cellar with a cozy atmosphere, featuring Polish and European cuisine
• Restauracja Filmar – gourmet Polish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients that celebrate Torun’s history
• Ćeskie Smaki – a restaurant that serves Czech cuisine, including grilled dishes and beer in a rustic atmosphere
• Cukiernia Sowa – this adorable pastry shop is famous for its gingerbread cookies, and cakes ideal for a quick and sweet bite

Cultural Experiences

Torun has a lively cultural scene that is worth experiencing during your visit. Here are some cultural hotspots to add to your itinerary:

• Teatr Wilama Horzycy – the theater named after a local writer and philosopher, offers performances that blend traditional and modern approaches
• Center for Contemporary Art – for modern art lovers, this exciting art center showcases thought-provoking exhibitions and installations
• Motoarena Torun – Torun is home to the speedway World Team Cup, and the locally branded racing outfits compete in this fantastic stadium
• Jazz od Nowa – this underground club is a hangout spot where you can experience the city’s jazz scene and polish up your dance moves.

Local History

Torun’s history is synonymous with the Teutonic Order, who established the city in the early 13th century. The order was a powerful military and religious organization founded in Palestine to provide medical relief during the Crusades. Today, visitors can explore Torun’s rich history at:

• The Teutonic Castle Ruins – standing among the lush landscape and serene views of the Vistula river, this site holds relics of the rule of the Teutonic Knights in Torun
• The Copernicus Monument – the famous astronomer joined the university in Torun, and a statue of him stands in the town square
• The Old Town – provides a glimpse of what life was like during the medieval period. The town’s architecture is an excellent illustration of the cultural exchange that took place during that time.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

There are plenty of off-the-beaten-path suggestions that you can add to your Torun itinerary. Here are a few:

• Kamienica przy ul. Mostowej 17 – a narrow house on a bridge, one of two left-over examples of bridge houses in Europe
• Bulwar Filadelfijski – take a leisurely stroll down the scenic boulevard in the evenings, enjoy a picnic or sip a drink at one of the many cafes here
• Planetarium – an offbeat attraction where you can explore the skies and the many mysteries of the universe
• Słodownia – this former grain silo is now a pop-up culture center where visitors can enjoy independent art exhibits, concerts, and shows

In conclusion, Torun is a city that is rich in history and culture. It is a perfect mix of the old and new, making it a destination that every traveler should add to their list. With this guide, you are now well-equipped to explore and discover all that Torun has to offer.