Architecture in Poznan is far from trivial. Despite the devastating World War II there is number of interesting buildings spread throughout the city. My favorite style of the city houses is art nouveau found in one of the city districts: Jeżyce. Not as magnificent as buildings in Barcelona, Paris or Brussels it is still fascinating to walk around this area and know the history behind it. It all started with a flood in 1888 which, causing a considerable damage of the ancient fortifications, convinced the authorities to expand the city towards the west. In a place where today you find a vibrant city there were small villages only 120 years ago! What I find most striking was a tight tie with Berlin that is so clearly visible in architecture of these times! Back then, Poznan was under Prussian rule (1793–1918) with authority in Berlin. All buildings, streets squares and avenues were conceptually driven by the mainstream trends from Berlin rather than Warsaw. Architectural style of art nouveau introduced in Poznan had few particular features. The houses were bigger than previously constructed in the city center but in terms of internal division of space it did not change significantly. The main characteristics of art nouveau is found in rich decorations of facade, stained glass windows, abundant stucco and excessive usage of floral motifs. Also oval windows were a novelty and beautifully crafted balcony railings. A fairytale like elements were introduced in all newly constructed buildings, which were numerous. In late 19th century construction sites popped up like mushrooms after a few days of rain. As many as over 800 planning permissions were issued and within next few years wonderful and stylish houses were constructed. Here is something extra for you: Poznan seen by a foreigners. An Australian family visited Poznan and here is what they found interesting in our city! Jezyce might not be a touristic center of Poznan, however, it is heavily used by the locals. So if you wonder how is life of the local people you should walk around this area. Here is my itinerary of one sunny early morning I spent in Poznan. ROOSEVELT STREET – KRASICKIEGO STREET – MICKIEWICZA STREET – POZNANSKA STREET – STRZAŁKOWSKIEGO STREET – DĄBROWSKIEGO – JEZYCKI SQUARE – KRASZEWSKIEGO STREET – SŁOWACKIEGO STREET back to MIECKIEWICZA STREET. Quite naturally just like very other city district Jezyce has its own problems. Heavy traffic, lack of parking space and city noise are only few of them. Nevertheless, this area has amazing charm and beauty. If you come here in early morning, walk around and look up you will connect with the past of this city. Watching newly renovated houses but also the ones that were less fortunate and show a visible damage you will think about the difficult history of this place. Some of the details found in the streets of Jezyce are stunning. There are some good cafes to sit in too. A recent revival of cafes along Szamarzewskiego street is worthy to pay a visit. Also an interesting one is called Sweet Surrender and is found at Krasińskiego Street, just behind a theater building. A perfect place to play chess with your friends! Every fan of art nouveau will find this place delightful! Far from crowded touristic spots there is a very unique and interesting piece of modern architecture. This is just perfect for a lazy morning walk and a photo tour! Disclosure: this post was kindly supported by City of Poznan, however, all opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.  

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Writing about home city is challenging. It’s very difficult to find the right perspective. On the one hand, there are too many stories to tell, too many memories to share and just too many places to write about. On the other hand, local stories and excessive detailed description will not interest travelers nor tourists. So here is the thing: I will show you my city just as I do with my foreign friends who visit me here. Places I normally go, things I usually do, events I always participate. This is a very personal itinerary of Poznan. And as local as it gets. Food Starting with basics: I’ll show you my favorite places for having a coffee, a delicious dessert or sites where I simply like to chill out with my friends. So next post will take you on tour around the Poznan cafes. Some of them are charming and very busy with locals while others are quiet and peaceful. This is true for Poznan: everyone finds something for himself or herself. A huge variety of cafes awaits you. Not only cafes are busy places here: people all over the world spend time shopping fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers. You must be familiar with pictures of exotic food markets and I’m going to show you how people do their daily shopping on city markets. It’ll be very colorful and crowded, just like elsewhere! Art&History Poznan is an excellent example of a place where history and art are fascinating! No worries: no boring museum with old paintings. Far from it! I’ll take you for a long walk around one of Poznan districts that is called Jeżyce. I’m going to show you a fabulous art deco style of the houses that survived last war. Spectacular details, glass windows, door, balconies and stucco. Few sites here reminds me my trip to Barcelona and I hope you’ll share my delight with these beauties. Further, I’m taking you to one of the most modern places in the city where ancient history becomes alive. Sounds weird: modern technologies and the ancient history? Fair enough. You’ll se for yourself. Events Poznan is a city of festivals. No doubts about it! Throughout the year there is no weekend without a music or cultural event. Seriously! You can chose from street theaters’ festival, ethnic music festival, jazz festival, films and music festivals and so many others! I will focus on two events I participate: Dancing Poznan and 15th Poznan Marathon. I think these two events are very particular and you will find out why if you read these posts. If you wish know Poznan better, see whether this city is an interesting holiday destination or just check what to do here follow posts published under “Home City”. Trust locals – they know best!    

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