The ancient city of Krakow, founded over a thousand years ago, is considered the jewel of Poland. Many would consider that without Krakow there would be no Poland. For this beautiful city is not only Poland's former capital; it also represents much of the historical, cultural and intellectual heart of Poland. Krakow contains the royal castle of the Polish kings, dozens of churches and cathedrals, and a great many palaces and houses with edifices dating from the Renaissance, Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque periods. This protected UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only the cultural and artistic capital of Poland, but is also an important cultural centre for Europe and the World. Furthermore, unlike many other Polish and European cities, Krakow escaped destruction during the Second World War. Thus, one may walk and marvel in a city where the stones truly tell the stories of a past millennium. Krakow's wonderful museums and living history as seen in its beautiful architecture and people are complemented by a multitude of summer cultural events, such as the Summer Opera and Jazz festivals. Such events add to the already the inherently vibrant life within the old town, filled with over 300 pubs, cafes, bars and restaurants . Join us and take a stroll in the "Rynek", the largest market square in Europe, and see why Krakow was nominated as one of the first laureates for the title of European City of Culture (2000). This year (2008) promises to be very exciting, with an explosion of cultural and artistic events, both national and international, to celebrate Krakow as a cultural centre in Europe.