|
 One of the oldest Polish towns, Przemysl was probably founded as a stronghold already in the 7th century. For centuries many nationalities lived here side by side. It is their heritage, representing the cultures of the West and the East that shaped the present appearance of the city of Przemysl. The stronghold was founded on terrain, which was long fought over by Poland and Ruthenia. Przemysl suffered from frequent Tartar, later Swedish, and Hungarian invasions. Around 1850 the Austrians began to fortify Przemysl. This work continued right up till the outbreak of World War I. Przemysl has many well-preserved historical buildings. Perched on a hillside and dominated by the towers of four mighty churches, the Old Town is a picturesque sort of place. Our attention is attracted by the Franciscan and Reformed Franciscan Churches (both built in the 171h C.), and by the Gothic cathedral set up on Romanesque foundations. A partially preserved castle stands on top of the Castle Hill. Remains of a pre-Romanesque structure were also found here. The Regional Museum has on display an extensive collection of art-works and historical mementoes as well as interesting archaeological finds. The Archdiocesan Museum contains many sacred works of art, some dating back to the 12th century. Very attractive are the famous fortifications of the Przemysl fortress. The city was surrounded by rings of forts, which are quite well-preserved. A tourist trail with black markings runs along the outer ring line. Ten kilometres west of Przemysl is the village of Krasiczyn sited upon the San River. No one would notice the village if not for its mighty late-Renaissance castle built at the turn of the 16th century. It is a square structure with partly arcaded courtyard and four different cylindrical corner towers. Restoration work has recently been reactivated and the castle will house a museum in the future. Its modernised part contains a hotel and a restaurant. |
|
Up