Welcome to Świdnica
One of the wealthiest towns in Silesia during the Middle Ages, Świdnica (shfeed-nee-tsah) escaped major damage in WWII and has retained some important historical buildings, including its Unesco-protected Church of Peace. Though not a prime tourist destination, it's still an agreeable place for a stopover, and a convenient springboard for the impressive Książ Castle, 15km southwest.
Founded in the 12th century, Świdnica became the capital of the Piast Duchy of Świdnica-Jawor in 1290. For centuries it was a flourishing commercial centre, well known for its beer, which ended up on the tables of Kraków, Prague and Buda. Until the Thirteen Years' War (1454–66) it was one of the largest Polish towns, with some 6000 inhabitants. By 1648, however, the population had dropped to 200, and Świdnica has ever since been dwarfed by its former rival, Wrocław.
Top experiences in Świdnica
Rynek 43
Da Grasso
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Świdnica activities
$47.95 Cultural & Theme Tours
UNESCO World Heritage-listed Church of Peace Day Tour from Wroclaw
ItineraryThis is a typical itinerary for this productStop At: Sleza Mountain, Sobotka, Lower Silesia Province, Southern PolandThe scenic route takes you from Wrocław to the city of Sobotka on the footsteps of the mount Sleza, definitely one of the unique, mystical and mysterious places in Poland. The ridge emerges from monotonous Silesian lowlands to the height of 718 m, which makes it dominant part of landscape for the whole province. After a short look on picturesque Market Square have a break in the mountain cottage and hear the fascinating history about different heathen tribes that lived in the area since the Bronze age. Admire the ancient stone sculptures representing religious symbols, whose meaning are still discussed by the archaeologist. Duration: 45 minutesStop At: Fundacja "Krzyżowa" dla Porozumienia EuropejskiegoThen continue to the village of Krzyzowa (former Kreisau), today an seat of important foundation for Mutual Understanding in Europe. Find out about the - the Polish - German Reconciliation Mass celebrated on 12 November 1989 attended by the heads of the Polish and the German government, Tadeusz Mazowiecki and Helmut Kohl, which was a symbolic end of the cold war and the beginning of a new chapter in the relation between two nations.Duration: 45 minutesPass By: Cathedral of St. Stanislaus and St. Vaclav, Swidnica, Lower Silesia Province, Southern PolandThen arrive at Swidnica to admire the enchanting city with its impresive cathedral and picturesque market square having some free time for lunch or individual exploration. Stop At: Town Hall, Swidnica (Ratusz w Swidnicy), Swidnica, Lower Silesia Province, Southern Polandfree timeDuration: 1 hour 30 minutesStop At: Church of Peace, Swidnica (Kosciol Pokoju w Swidnicy), Swidnica, Lower Silesia Province, Southern PolandFinally pay the visit to the marvelous Church of Peace, the largest wooden church in Europe. Built in the XVII century, during the Hapsburg rule and is an impressive and remarkable example of religious conflict dividing Europe centuries ago. Erected under very strict conditions represent a immense historic and artistic value, rightly earning its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. After the visit take a relaxing ride back to Wroclaw.Duration: 40 minutes
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Świdnica in detail