Written by Mrs Jenny Grant, Head of History and Politics.

Our Upper School pupils had three unforgettable days exploring Kraków’s rich history and culture during the long exeat.

Day 1

We began the day with a walking tour of Kazimierz and Podgorze – the old Jewish Quarter of Kraków and the site of the remains of the ghetto established by the occupying German authorities. After lunch, a tram ride took us to the former Gestapo HQ, where we looked more at life for the people of Kraków first under German and then Soviet occupation. The afternoon brought a welcome change of pace with shopping, supper and site-seeing in the Old Town.

Day 2

A morning spent at Auschwitz-Birkenau. Our expert guide and use of audio headsets allowed us each to engage and reflect on the significance of the site within our own space. Undoubtedly harrowing, but such an important visit. In the afternoon, we toured the Wieliczka Salt Mine. At one stage, salt represented a third of the Poland’s royal revenue. The mines have since been developed as a tourist destination, the highpoint of which was the St Kinga Chapel. We returned to the Jewish quarter for dinner at the Ariel restaurant, and enjoyed a concert of traditional Jewish songs.

Day 3

A morning at the Galicia Museum, touring a photographic exhibition of remaining traces of pre-war Jewish life, and reflecting on the most appropriate way to commemorate these traces. We then listened to a fascinating talk by a Polish woman whose mother was declared among the Righteous Among Nations for her role in protecting her Jewish school friend in Krakow during the war. A final shopping opportunity at the Galeria Krakowska and the Old Town, before returning to the airport and a flight home.

This trip was more than just about sightseeing. It was an exploration of history, culture and remembrance that the girls won’t ever forget.