Jewish Krakow

"Had not the Lord left us this land as a refuge, the fate of Israel would have been indeed unbearable" (ReMA, Rav Moshe Isserles).

Although Poland is not considered much of a filosemitic country today one has to admit that medieval Poland was probably the most liberal and Jewish-friendly place at that time.

In fact, Poland in general and Krakow in particular have been the safest refuge for Jews through most of Middle Ages - and this was the reason for so many Jews to move to live there.

As a major jewish center in the past, Poland became very popular destination for kivrei tzaddikim (graves of great rabbis) tours, tiulei shorashim (root-seeking tours) and -connected to its later and more tragic history- visits of former concentration camps.

You will find most remnants of jewish life in Kazimierz - former mostly jewish quarter named after filosemitic king that established it.

There are, however, no kosher restaurants here. Sometimes kosher food can be provided for groups if ordered in advance (consult www.jewishtraveladvisor.com -they do it on request) and kosher breakfast can be organized in some of local hotels.

There are some interesting synagogues you can visit - check www.jewishkrakow.net for more details.