RYNEK

Lublin's historic center, the Rynek shows the traces left by the passage of time, but also the effects of human genius in restoring its heritage. It's not difficult to find the Lublin of yesteryear in the cracked facades and faded decorations of its magnificent buildings. All the more so as the center was hardly touched by the ravages of war. Despite the poor state of repair, the Rynek's charm is already intoxicating. All around are beautiful, richly decorated houses. At no. 12, the façade and windows of the Konopnic family house (1512) are decorated with sculptures in the shape of masks, dragon heads and male and female bodies. At no. 2, the Klonowicz house was inhabited in the ^16th century by the poet-mayor of Lublin, after whom it was named. In the ^18th century, it was remodeled in neoclassical style. The central square is dominated by the Royal Court, whose dimensions are out of all proportion to those of the square. It used to be the Town Hall (1578).

Today, it's the starting point for a tour of Lublin's underground passages (Lubelskie Podzemia, from May to October, Tuesday to Friday at 10-12-14-16h, weekends from midday to 5pm every hour, Mondays at 10am and 2pm, 35 zl). The tour lasts around 45 minutes and the temperature varies between 7 and ^12°C. The underground route is around 300 meters long and comprises corridors and 14 rooms where, in the ^16th century, goods were stored.