What is the Population of Poland?

Poland is a country located in Central Europe and sharing borders with Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania and Russia. The 9th-most populous and 6th-poorest country in the European Union, Poland has a population of about 38.4 million people as of 2018.

Poland has seen a surge in population growth in recent years, with a growth rate of 0.43% from 2000 to 2018, according to a study from Statista. This is due in large part to significant improvements in healthcare and fertility rates over the past two decades. Additionally, Poland has seen an influx of immigrants seeking employment, which has also contributed to its population growth.

Demographically, Poland’s population is estimated to be 95% Polish, 2.7% Belarusian, 1.5% Ukrainian and Ukrainian-Belarusian, and 1.1% German. Additionally, the nation is home to a large number of Roma people, who make up approximately 0.2% of the population. Religion is also a key component of Polish culture, with the vast majority – 83% – of the population identifying as Roman Catholic. The remaining population adheres to various Protestant denominations, Eastern Orthodox churches and other religions.

Economically, Poland’s GDP is estimated at $1.23 trillion USD as of 2018. It has a largely service-based economy and is one of the most developed countries in Central and Eastern Europe. The unemployment rate stands at 5%, as of July 2018, though this number is likely to increase in 2019 due to a potential slowdown in the global economy. Despite this, Poland is experiencing significant economic growth, with 8.1% real GDP growth estimated in 2018.

Given its solid economic performance, Poland has seen an increase in foreign investment, particularly from multinational corporations. In 2019 alone, foreign direct investment was estimated at €8 billion USD, representing a 13% increase year-over-year, signifying that the country offers an attractive investment proposition for many businesses.

To sum up, Poland is a nation of 38.4 million people as of 2018, making it the 9th most populous and 6th poorest country in the European Union. The population has seen significant growth over the past two decades thanks to improvements in healthcare and fertility rates as well as an influx of immigrants seeking employment opportunities. The nation is ethnically diverse and largely Roman Catholic. Poland also has a service-based economy which has seen significant foreign investment over the past years due to high GDP growth and low unemployment rate. With all these factors combined, it’s easy to see why Poland is a great place to live and work. To get more information on population statistics in Poland you can visit Worldometers.

Insider’s Guide to Krakow, Poland: A Perfect Blend of History, Culture, and Scenic Beauty

Krakow, a city in southern Poland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors each year. It’s hard not to fall in love with its picturesque Old Town and charming cobbled streets, lively cultural scene, and great culinary offerings. Let’s delve into what makes Krakow so special and explore some of the best things to see, do and eat.

Local Attractions

Krakow boasts several must-visit tourist attractions, including Wawel Castle, one of the most splendid royal residencies in Europe that dates back to the 14th century. Inside, visitors can see opulent rooms, a cathedral with royal crypts, and a museum displaying unique artifacts. The Rynek Glowny central square is another popular destination, surrounded by beautiful architecture, cafes, and a colossal historical market hall, Sukiennice, that sells souvenirs, art, and crafts.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to Schindler’s Factory Museum, which illustrates the story of the wartime hero who saved around 1,200 Jews during WWII, is a must-visit. The museum features artefacts, multimedia displays, and a recreated wartime Krakow Ghetto area. Additionally, the fascinating Main Market Square Underground Museum takes visitors on an archeological trip through the medieval town, where they can see a network of cellars, alleys, and streets.

Dining Spots

Krakow is a foodie’s haven, with a rich culinary scene that combines Polish and European influences. A visit to a traditional restaurant for some delicious pierogi, local dumplings filled with minced meat or cheese and potatoes, is a must-try. Other food staples include multiple meat-based dishes, ‘Bigos’ (sausage and cabbage stew), and ‘Zapiekanka,’ which is a baguette topped with mushrooms, cheese, and ketchup.

Foodies should consider visiting the Kazimierz district, which offers an abundance of culinary experiences, such as the street food stalls at Plac Nowy and the Jewish cuisine restaurants lining the streets. The district was once the Jewish quarter and still has a strong cultural and artistic feel, making it a great place to soak up the atmosphere.

Cultural Experience

Krakow is a mecca for culture enthusiasts, thanks to its dazzling art, architecture, music, and festivals. One of the best cultural experiences in Krakow is watching live music performances by Chopin or opera at the stunning Krakow Philharmonic. If you enjoy theatre or dance, the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre is worth catching a show, or visit the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre for avant-garde performances.

For art lovers, a visit to the impressive National Museum is worth exploring, showcasing a vast collection of Polish and European paintings, drawings, and sculptures. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow (MOCAK) is another great cultural destination, hosting a constantly rotating selection of contemporary art exhibits.

Local History

Krakow has a rich and engrossing history, beginning as a medieval trade center and moving on to become Poland’s capital for several centuries. Visitors can learn about Poland’s harrowing past by visiting the district of Płaszów, which was site of a concentration camp during World War II. The Ghetto Heroes Square monument is nearby, commemorating the Jewish resistance during the war.

Those interested in Polish art history should discover the collection at the Czartoryski Museum Palace, which features works by world-famous painters, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Botticelli. Tourists fascinated by Krakow’s past, can take a walk along the Royal Way, the historic route taken by Polish Kings, which is lined with palaces, churches, and interesting sights such as the Polish Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations, Krakow has several lesser-known spots that are well worth a visit. Discover the medieval St. Kinga’s Chapel, an awe-inspiring underground salt mine that dates back to the 13th century. Here, sculptures, chandeliers, and altarpieces carved solely out of salt await visitors.

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic bike or hike along the Vistula Boulevard, the longest green park in Central Europe, stretching five kilometres along the banks of the Vistula River. Alternatively, a visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, located on the city’s outskirts, allows visitors to explore a labyrinth of underground tunnels, chambers, and chapels. In contrast, the Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, a fully functioning industrial structure, tells the story of how Schindler protected his Jewish workforce during the war.

In conclusion, Krakow is a delightful and charming destination filled with scenic spots, fantastic culinary delights, and cultural experiences, providing an excellent mix of modern and historical attractions that every traveler should put on their bucket list.