Room With a View, Krakow

Alicja Bachleda-Curuś and Colin Farrell have a son

krakowroom — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:17:04 +0000

Just as an update – Alicia and Collin have a son – we don’t know more at the moment. It’s not really so important to be perfectly honest. But since people are actually looking forward to reading about the topic – here it is…

Greenway – vegetarian restaurant in Krakow

krakowroom — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:57:37 +0000

Greenway is an international chain of vegetarian restaurants. They have opened several places in major polish cities offering the best dishes, all trendy vegetarian and all of that at rather reasonably prices. The one in Krakow’s city centre is quite small, but really cozy and pleasant. It’s located right in the middle of the city, 1 minute walk from famous St. Mary’s Cathedral. Step in if you’re in the neighbourhood – you are just about to be fed with all the veggies you can fit in.

Greenway’s menu consists of soups, main courses, pancakes, deserts and hot and cold soft drinks. Touch of indian cuisine mixed with mexican and polish influences can be spotted right away in main dishes. Don’t miss on deserts though – those are delicious. If you’re not in the mood for a meal have a coffee – it’s tasty and refreshing.

Enjoy.

Alicja Bachleda Curuś is pregnant with Colin Farrell

krakowroom — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 12:24:23 +0000

Well – this is semi-Krakow relater news. Turned out that our readers really enjoy being updated about the hottest couple of this summer – Alicja Bachleda Curuś and her american boyfriend Colin Farrell. The biggest news couple of days ago was that he bought an apartment in the centre of Krakow for her. Not any more. The newest info is that Alicja is pregnant with Collin. It has been confirmed by brother of this young polish actress. He met Collin and accepted him so everyone is happy. Also their friends are saying that the couple is really excited about the prospect of having a child. They may even think about settling down in Krakow, at least for a while. The rumors started couple of days ago when Alicja was spotted on the airport wearing a very loose dress showing a silhouette of her new rounder shape. now we know for sure.

Enjoy this small bit of Hollywood in Krakow.

1st September 2009 – Krakow – marking the 70th anniversary of the commencement of WW2

krakowroom — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:47:10 +0000

The World Orchestra for Peace is about to play live concert in Poland to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the beginning of Word War II. It’s brought by City of Krakow and the Polish Ministry of Culture. The concerts starts 7pm and will be broadcasted live on polish TV2 and. Anyone based in Krakow is invited to enjoy it on giant screens in the centre of Krakow. It will also be streamed live by CNN.com on their website.

The Orchestra, as we can read on its official website, is “an expression of harmony on all levels. It was founded in 1995 by Sir Georg Solti to reaffirm, in his words, ‘the unique strength of music as an ambassador for peace’. Its players come from orchestras all over the world, many of them concert masters and section leaders in their own right, and the orchestra has no existence outside the very special occasions that call it into being.”

Programme for this concert will be:

Krzysztof Penderecki ‘Prelude for Peace’ (WOP commission, world premiere)
Gustav Mahler Symphony No. 5 in C# minor

Enjoy!

Bagelmama – bagel in a jewish Krakow

krakowroom — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:09:14 +0000

So – you are in Krakow’s formerly Jewish quarter Kazimierz and you’re wondering what to do to get the real taste of it. Well … a bagel would do.

Jewish cuisine is rich with flavours but one of it’s most prominent landmark is a bagel. Basically – it’s a roll with a round whole in the middle and lots of possible fillings. You can get it in New York, Israel is fameous for bagels with humus but the best ones are available in the “Old Country”, ie. Poland. Of course Bagelmama offers variety of menus – there is Jewish, texMex and take away. Bon apetit!

The Pharmacy under the Eagle

krakowroom — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 13:28:29 +0000

The famous pharmacy ‘Under the Eagle’, is located in Ghetto Heroes’ Square number 18, at a very particular spot – right next to where former Krakow’s ghetto wall used to be. It’s now a branch of the Historical Museum of Krakow, where the evidence of Nazi genocide performed on the Jewish inhabitants of Krakow is being gathered and preserved. It’s a legendary and famous place. Pharmacy was one of not many non-Jewish institutions located in a Jewish ghetto. Due to that it was truly unique and was able to serve and protect people’s lives.

The pharmacy was founded and run by a Polish pharmacist Tadeusz Pankiewicz. He was the only non-Jewish person actually living inside the ghetto. His pharmacy was a secret point, where the elite would meet, the underground press was read and letters were exchanged. But most of all Pankiewicz and his staff would help sick Jews and protect many of them by smuggling them to non-Jewish part of Krakow.

Pankiewicz was able to provided shelter for Jews during night arresting. The pharmacy had two exits: the official and a spare one. The latter helped to save lives of many people escaping to Jozefinska Street. The hero also saved over a dozen valuables and old scrolls from local synagogues. After the war, when the communists took over the Pharmacy was turned into a low class bar and Pankiewicz himself moved. It remained in a poor condition until the 80′. In 1983 a museum was opened in the former pharmacy building due to efforts of Pankiewicz’s friends and war heroes, and in 2004 the interiors were refurbished due to the efforts of Roman Polanski and Steven Spielberg.

In 1983 the state of Israel honored Tadeusz Pankiewicz with a medal of ‘The Righteous Among the Nations‘ – a medal honoring those who saved Jews from the Holocaust. He died in November 5th 1993 and is buried in Rakowicki Cemetery in Krakow.

Collin Farrell and Alicja Bachleda bought a house in Krakow

krakowroom — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 18:41:56 +0000

Straight from the glitterati’s world – Collin Farrell has just bought a house in Krakow valued at over 3.5 million zloty. The reason, well … Collina and Alicja Bachleda are one of the hottest Hollywood’s couple of last months have just entered brand new phase of their relationship. Apparently a serious Hollywood closeness works best in connection with real estate market. The apartment – of over 150 square meters in the center of Krakow – is located right on the Main Market Square with a view of St Marys Church and the Cloth Hall. So – being in Krakow don’t forget to look around. It’s starting to be a destination for celebrity couples.

Krakow still affordable!

krakowroom — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 12:41:26 +0000

Do you know which European city offers the most expensive hotel services? Well … surprise, surprise – it’s Moscow. According to Hogg Robinson Group – a research company specializing in tourism industry hotel’s prices in Eastern Europe went down in the first half of 2009. The same source reports that the most expensive locations are Moscow, and then, in this order – Abu Zabi, Paris, New York, Mediolan, Geneva, Hongkong, Dubai, Copenhagen and Rome. And what about Krakow, one may ask. Well – it’s still affordable!

No EURO 2012 for Krakow

krakowroom — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 08:45:24 +0000

Michel Platini and UEFA have decided that Krakow won’t play any role in EURO 2012 football European Championship. Krakow was in close competition with Poznan and has lost. This recent turn of events has already caused plenty of disappointment amongst Krakovians. But most of all the loosers are entrepreneurs of Krakow – most of the investments – hotels, clubs need to be ceased.

49th Krakow Film Festival, 29.05-4.06

krakowroom — Sun, 31 May 2009 08:25:07 +0000

49th Krakow Film Festival is one of the oldest events of this kind in Europe. It’s dedicated to screen documentary, animations and short films . Every year it takes place in couple of ambitious Krakow’s cinemas – Kijow, Kino pod Baranami, Mikro, Filmowa Cafe, Klub Pauza. It’s a great opportunity to have a look at a collection of over 250 polish and foreign films. It’s also a great opportunity to meet film people connected to film industry. Aparta from films The Festival is accompanied by exhibitions, concert, and many outdoor events. Re recommend – not every screening is suitable for english speaking audience, but most of them is. Starts 29th of May – ends 4th of June.

Krakow Film Festival

There is going to be a beach in Krakow

krakowroom — Fri, 29 May 2009 13:49:57 +0000

There is going to be a beach in Krakow! That’s right – a beach. Right in the middle of Krakow, on the level of former Hotel Forum used to be, on Vistula River there is going to be a swimming pool, a beach, recreation center and a marina for yachts and motor boats. All along the river there’s going to be plenty of new objects – pubs, clubs, restaurants. Krakow’s tradition to focus social life in the vicinity of Vistula Boulevards goes back to 1970′ – it used to be popular to walk along the river, to have picnics and spend lots of time outdoors. The only crucial point is “When” – well… stay tuned!

Lenny Kravitz – on Krakow Midsummer Festival April 21 2009

krakowroom — Mon, 18 May 2009 08:33:28 +0000

Wianki – Krakow’s Midsummer Festival will be held, as always, on 20 of June. 2009 edition of the festival will bring a concert of Mr. Lenny Kravitz himself. What is more important – Lenny and the band’s performance will be sponsored by the city of Krakow and therefore completely free of charge. Join us for the festival celebrating the longest day in the year where you can spot wreaths float on water of Vistula River, and it’s a big outdoor event accompanied with plenty of concerts and fireworks at the end. Totally worth seeing.

Lenny’s concert will be supprted by polish atrists – The Poise Rite, Vavamuffin, Wilki and Patrycja Markowska.

April 21 – starts at 6

Krakow in Google Map Street View by the end of 2009

krakowroom — Sat, 09 May 2009 14:55:13 +0000

Google has announced that Krakow and Warsaw are going to be photographed and inputted to Google Map Street View. The works has begun on 5th of may and we should be able to perform an interactive sightseeing of Krakow by the end of 2009. All the faces and car plates will be blurred but the whole rest of real-life pictures of both cities will be available. Let’s hope that will not bring controversy, such as that has happened in USA and United Kingdom where couple of law suits were brought for using people’s faces or houses. Meanwhile have a look at our interactive map of Krakow.

The Wawel Cathedral in Krakow

krakowroom — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 19:51:47 +0000

The Wawel Cathedral is one of the most important and most recognizable of Poland’s national sanctuary’s. It’s located on Wawel Hill, within one complex of buildings with Wawel Castle. For many people the only place they remember from trip to Krakow is a dome inlaid with golden plates and interiors of the Cathedral with it’s beautiful sculptures and paintings. The 1000 years history and tradition of this place is something really unique and even overwhelming.

Cathedral was the coronation site of nearly all Polish monarchs. One of the very first pope John Paul the II masses as a young priest took place here, so it’s a place of great importance for all the Poles. The Cathedral is still being used to conduct masses and during them is closed for visiting. Sometimes you can see a weding ceremony, but a mass is every day. So remember not to disturb praying.

Krakow Zoo

krakowroom — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 19:15:39 +0000

The City Zoo in Krakow one of the oldest in Poland. Zoo is situated in the Wolski Forest – really nice walking terrain. It opened in 1929 and now has nearly 1500 animals from over 260 species. You can see Indian elephants, hippopotamuses, white camels, sea lions, wild cats and many many more.The newest one is black jaguar – joined in march 2009. Zoo is opened every day from 9 till 6. Well .. a zoo is nothing we would really recommend but if you’re on holidays with kids that may be fun.

19th Krakow Tourism Salon – April 2009

krakowroom — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 12:13:28 +0000

People interested in tourism might be interested to know that 19th Krakow Tourism Salon – the biggest event of such type in southern Poland – will be held from the 3rd to the 5th of April 2009. Place is modern exhibition hall of Bronisław Czech Academy of Physical Education in Krakow. During the event visitors will have the opportunity to meet everyone involved in Krakow’s tourism. Entry is free.

The Sisters of Mercy – Krakow – 31st-March-2009

krakowroom — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 22:03:25 +0000

The Sisters of Mercy – an English rock band formed in Leeds in 1980 – is to performed in Krakow on 31st of March 2009. Generally described as gothic roch or post-punk band made it’s commercial breakthrough in mid-1980s. They stopped releasing new albums in the early 1990s and until now they play concerts. If you’re into this king of music you’d be delighted to be able to go to a concert. It’s going to take place in a club called Studio. Tickets cost 95 to 110 PLN and are available from any god music shop. Enjoy!

Krakow apartments4rent

krakowroom — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:43:18 +0000

“Krakow Apartments 4rent” offers superior long and short term accommodations for singles, couples and families. It’s perfect if you’d like something more special, cozy and private. Also – for long term leases it’s much cheaper than renting ad more comfortable. Those apartments are taken care for perfectly well and are equipped with all the amenities to make your stay in Krakow really comfy. All of that comes at an affordable price. The company offers couple of apartments – we’ve decided to describe 8 of them focusing on the one next to Vistula River. That one is also pointed on our map of Krakow.

Art. Deco Apartment / Madalińskiego street number 8. It’s luxury Art Deco style with original furniture from the ‘30, 100 sqm apartment on second floor. It’s got one bedroom for up to 2 people. It’s equipped in a king size bed in the bedroom, cabinet, living room, kitchen, bathroom, tv sat, Wifi, washing machine. The location is great, it’s just steps away from Visla River and 10 minutes walking from Wawel Castle. Private garage. Non smoking only. Flexible check in/out possible – also shuttle service from/to the airport provided.

Link: http://www.krakowapartments4rent.com/en,krakow_art deco_apartment.html

Prices: 65 – 110 Euro per night/ 600 Euro/week

other apartments offered by “Krakow Apartments 4rent”

Kazimierz Apartment – Wietora Street no9 – 2 bedroom, 60 sqm apartment, up to 6 people

Rubinstein Apartment – Wietora Street no 2 – newly decorated 1 bedroom apartment, 55 sqm, with a soul in typical Krakow’s tenement

Trinity Apartment – Trynitarska Street no 4 – brand new apartment in new building with a lift/elevator in the heart of Kazimierz. 80 sqm, 2 bedrooms, king size bed and 2x single bed in the bedrooms + double pull out sofa in the living room, 2 bathrooms with underfloor heating

Irish Apartment – Bochenska Street no 3 – 2 bedroom modern apartment, up to 4 people,

Empire Apartment – Starowislna Street no 45 – 1 bedroom – up to 4 people, beautiful apartment in Krakow’s tenement in one of major streets of Kazimierz, fully equipped

Attic Apartment – Kotlarska Street no 6 – 1 bedroom apartment, economic class, for up to 4 people. Double bed in the bedroom + sofa bed in the living room. 15 minutes on the foot from Kazimierz.

Old Town Apartment – Dietla Street no 95, 2 bedroom spacious apartment with balcony, central located, fully equipped, computer + internet, safe,dishwascher , washing machine, microwave

Ken Vandermark in Alchemia, Krakow – 15 March 2009

krakowroom — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:06:55 +0000

Ken Vandermark`s band – Vandermark 5 is coming again to Alchemia on 15th of March 2009. It’s the third time they perform in Krakow. All jazz fans will know what that means – a fiest of jazz saxophone. For everyone else – a small reminder. Ken Vandermark is an American jazz composer and saxophone and clarinet player. He has recorded dozens of albums and has performed with every living jazz player. And – well .. he loves Krakow and plays in Alchemia every now and then.

Ken Vandermark – reeds,
Dave Rempis – saxophones,
Fred Lonberg-Holm – cello,
Kent Kessler – double bass,
Tim Daisy – drums

Tickets cost 30 pln

The Barbican of Krakow

krakowroom — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 20:55:16 +0000

The Barbican is a fortified outpost, one of few remaining relics of the complex fortifications encircling the city of Krakow. It was build around 1498 right at the end of Florianska Street. It’s cylindrical in shape, has 3 meter thick walls and inner courtyard. It is the largest and best preserved building of its kind in Europe. These days it is a tourist attraction and a location for concerts and theatres. For couple of years it’s been nicely illuminated. Definitely one of the most distinctive buildings of Krakow and it’s landmark.

Prozack – genuine club in the heart of Krakow

krakowroom — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 19:15:51 +0000

Prozack is probably the best place to represent genuine ‘club scene’ of Krakow. It’s a club and a dance place London or New York wouldn’t be shamed to host. If you know what that means and you into that kind of music you’ve probably already left to go there and have fun. If not – well… that may not be a place for you. To sum up – noisy, crowdy, trendy and hot, hot, hot. Music is always best club beats and you can expect to meet lots of young trendy professionals from Krakow and Warsaw dancing and partying. Weekends are especially crowdy, so be sure to have a plan B – maybe Lubu Dubu, or Caryca. There is selection on the gate and they tend to be rather difficult to convince to let you in sometimes. Just a reminder – sport clothing is not welcome and you may be not let in for that or any other reason. Also – don’t expect to be able to talk inside – you go there if you want to dance, dance, dance. To sum up, eh .. again – it’s a really unique place for club lovers.

Gallery of Krakow Sights

krakowroom — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 18:55:49 +0000

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Krakow stag

krakowroom — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 16:35:42 +0000

Krakow is a very popular destination for people in need to throw a stag party. Weather you’re a groom or a best man read along to find more information about stag do’s in Krakow. First of all, it’s much cheaper to have it in Poland. Especially off season prices of accommodation can could leave you with plenty of money for going out. What’s more – Krakow is a beautiful city filled with friendly hot blonds (or handsome guys if you’re a girl looking for info on hen nights) so unforgettable memories guaranteed.

Also – there are companies specializing in organizing stag and hen parties – the best one, in business for over 8 years with a branch in Wroclaw and soon to be opened in Warsaw, is Mad Krakow. They offer every activity you could imagine – from standards such as go-carting or paintball to such treats as vodka chess, rafting or snow flying – in short, it’s Tatras Mountains, vodka, sausages and snow mobiles. Just take it from their website – www.madkrakow.com

If you’re British or American you’ll find it especially easy to communicate with Poles – english classes are obligatory in polish schools so literally everyone knows some english. In one sentence – go for it, you won’t regret a second.

Dominican Church

krakowroom — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 22:45:06 +0000

Monumental Dominican Church (pl. Kosciol Dominikanow), located in the very nectre of Krakow, right next to the Main Market Square, was the site of the original wooden church of the Krakow burghers, dedicated to the Holy Trinity and erected in place of the former pagan temple. The basilica with a nave and two aisles was erected in the 13th century. Rest of the church was build in 15th century and rebuild in 1850 after a fire ravaged the interior, and there couple of more times. Being there have a look at the bronze artworks made by Wit Stwosz, and a copy of the tombstone of Leszek Czarny, Duke of Krakow and image of Our Lady of the Rosary.

These days Dominican Church is known as a place where Krakow’s students meet for 7 o’clock masses. It’s a place where you can hear a good not-dogmatic lecture and meet friendly people. In the past you could attend a mass conducted by such great priests as Jozef Tischner. So – if you’re openminded and catholic and student you’re likely to be interested in this place. Otherwise just admire the architecture – it’s definitely worth visiting.

Hard Rock Cafe in Krakow

krakowroom — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:45:38 +0000

Hard Rock Cafe – a chain of over 140 restaurants better known for it’s atmosphere than food made it’s way to Krakow. Initially a shop was opened in March 2008 and the restaurant part is to be launched in March of 2009. It’s located right next to Main Market Square, same building as Empik, ajdacent to St. Mary’s Basilica.

The brand and it’s qualities are very well known so we’re going to skip the description – it’s enough to mention that it is in Krakow now, and it’s probably worth visiting. So – if you’ve never been to one of them and you’re just wandering about in Krakow … Just remember – there is a lot to see in our city – sights, monuments, restaurants and other places unique to Krakow. And those we recommend to visit before you head to eat burgers in international chains.

Sakana Sushi Bar – Japanese cuisine in Krakow

krakowroom — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:41:35 +0000

Anyone fancy sushi? Yes, you’re not mistaken – it is possible to have a sushi meal in Krakow – just few steps from Krakow’s Market Square. Large selection of soups, sushi dishes and other delicacy of Japanese cuisine makes it a unique place on the culinary map of Krakow. Prices are ok as for Japanese restaurant – we have to remember – it’s fancy, even posh and that goes with the price. But most of all it’s delicious so treat yourself. To not oversell I just want to write that house speciality is Ebi furai i.e. shrimps fried in garlic butter served with a wheat and buckwheat macaroni. Maybe one more remark – it’s good quality.

Atlantis Hostel

krakowroom — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 09:09:17 +0000

Atlantis Hostel is one of those centrally located social hubs for foreigners where they go for partying, information, nice service and many more. It’s in really close distance to the Train Station, Wawel Castle, the Main Market Square and even Kazimierz. If you like to party that is the best location – all the pus, clubs, restaurants are within couple of minutes walk. Places loved by party-goers, such as Caryca, Lubu-Dubu, Kitsch are just 10 minutes walk, same applies to places in Kazimierz – Alchemia or Flower Power.

Atlantis Hostel offers clean, comfortable rooms at really good prices. Off-season prices start with 25 zł for the cheapest bunk bed in a room shared with other tourists. There’s everything you may be needing – tea and coffee, clean sheets, cheap international calls center, tourists information and free wireless internet, and most of all – people working there are doing they best to provide the highest level of service. The staff is really polite and you have the impression they want to be helpful and host you to the best standards. To say it in one word – we recommend it.

Foreign Consulates in Krakow

krakowroom — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:39:03 +0000

Foreign Consulates in Krakow

If you are a foreigner you may face a situation when a consulate could help or assist. For your convenience we put down a list of all the consulates located in Krakow along with their addresses, phones and websites.

American

Consulate General of the United States of America
Postal address: ul. Stolarska 9, 31-043 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124245100
Fax: (+48) 124245103
Website: http://krakow.usconsulate.gov/

Austrian

Consulate General of the Republic of Austria
Postal address: ul. Cybulskiego 9. Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124249930
Fax: (+48) 124216764
Website: www.austria.krakow.pl

French

Consulate General of the Republic of France
Postal address: ul. Stolarska 15, 31-043 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124245300
Fax: (+48) 124245320
Website: www.cracovie.org.pl

German

Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany
Postal address: ul. Stolarska 7, 31-043 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124243000
Fax: (+48) 124243010

Hungarian

Consulate General of the Republic of Hungary
Postal address: ul. sw. Marka 7/9, 31-012 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124225657
Fax: (+48) 124224784

Japanese

Consulate General of Japan
Postal address: ul. Grabowskiego 5/3, 31-126 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 126334359
Fax: (+48) 126326880

Russian

Consulate General of the Russian Federation
Postal address: ul. Biskupia 7, 31-144 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124222647
Fax: (+48) 124229066

Slovak

Consulate General of the Slovak Republic
Postal address: ul. sw. Tomasza 34, 31-027 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124254970
Fax: (+48) 124254972

Swedish

Royal Swedish General Consulate
Postal address: ul. sw. Anny 5, 31-008 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124217380
Fax: (+48) 124217291.

Turkish

Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey
Postal address: ul. Jaracza 10, 31-216 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124163005
Fax: (+48) 124234376.

Ukrainian

Consulate General of Ukraine
Postal address: ul. Beliny-Prazmowskiego 4, 31-514 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124296066
Fax: (+48) 124292936
Website: www.konsulat_ukrainy.wsi.edu.pl

Brazilian

Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Brazil
Postal address: ul. Karmelicka 34, 31-128 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 126323830

British

Honorary Consulate of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Postal address: ul. sw. Anny 9, 31-008 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124217030
Fax: (+48) 124224264

Danish

Honorary Consulate of the Kingdom of Denmark
Postal address: ul. sw. Anny 5, 31-008 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124217120
Fax: (+48) 124217291

Estonian

Honorary Consulate of the Republic Estonia
Postal address: ul. Florianska 15/4, 31-019 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 501014230

Italian

Consulate Honorary of the Republic of Italy
Postal address: ul. Wenecja 3, 31-117 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124292921

Lithuanian

Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Lithuania
Postal address: ul. Chlopickiego 10, 31-525 Krakow
Phone/fax: (+48) 124136518

Mexican

Honorary Consulate of the United Mexican States
Postal address: ul. Wiedenska 72, 30-147 Krakow
Phone (+48) 126365259
Fax (+48) 126380558.

Norwegian

Honorary Consulate of the Kingdom of Norway
Postal address: ul. Mazowiecka 25, 30-019 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 126330376
Fax: (+48) 126330351

Peruvian

Honorary Consulate of Republic of Peru
Postal address: ul. Straszewskiego 28, 31-113 Krakow
Phone: (+48) 124228018 ext. 28.
Fax: (+48) 124225910

La Strada – italian food in Krakow

krakowroom — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 15:40:27 +0000

To all fans of Italian food staying in or passing through Krakow – gather around and listen: One of the best Italian food we’ve had tasted was here in Krakow. A place called La Strada Restaurant has opened just couple of years ago but managed to surprise us with delicious italian dishes since.

Amongst plenty of traditional, and more experimental Italian dishes there are couple of pearls. All the starters looked good – but there was one called La Strada prepared with smoked chicken fresh tomatoes, lettuce, broad bean, soy sprouts and cheese which made the biggest impression.

Main dishes are not just pastas and pizzas – there is huge selection of meat dishes such as pork loin covered with our heavenly chanterelle sauce and 4 really good fish dishes. Unfortunately we couldn’t finish with a dessert – there are just three of them – all very standard, but coffee we had instead was great.

Surprisingly for an Italian restaurant they don’t have nice selection of wine – big minus. But, for the amateurs of strong liquors there is plenty to choose from.

Nathan’s Villa – nice and centrally located hostel

krakowroom — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 15:37:51 +0000

Nathan’s Villa – a hostel designed by a backpacker for backpackers. Opened in May 2003 is in business since, providing good quality service at decent prices. As they brag on the website – the Hostel is beautifully located. It’s just 2 minutes walk to Wawel Castle, and same distance to Kazimierz and Wisla River. And that my friends is the best definition of central location.

Prices start with 13 Euro for a bunk bed in a room shared with 10 people – which is fine taking that rooms standard is high. That included breakfast, internet connection and all the convenient things such as free billiards room, ping pong table, or even a welcome shot in the bar. Stag groups and student groups are welcome and some additional activities may be available.

All of the rooms are neat and clean, fully furnished and equipped with a safe locker. There are clean sheets, pillows and blankets available. Also – there is no curfew, no lockout and no checkout time for tourists convenience. Use it – have fun.

There are also other branches of Nathan’s Villa – in Wroclaw, Warsaw, and one in Romanian city of Sighisoara.

Leningrad concert in Krakow – 16-01-2009

krakowroom — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:54:56 +0000

Leningrad (Лениинград) is a Russian group playing energetic Ska-rock’n’roll from St Petersbourg (formerly called Leningrad). Ther are 11 guys lead by Sergiei Shnurov (Сергей Шнуров). They started playing in 1990 and are just about to split. After many successful concerts in Poland they decided to play last concerts in our country. The very last one is going to take place in Warsaw’s club Stodola on 17th January 2009, one day before that you can enjoy their music in Krakow. The very last chance.

Klub studio, Budryka street 4 (students campus), start at 20:00, tickets: 70 pln

Marillion in Krakow again – February 9th 2009

krakowroom — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 12:45:08 +0000

British super band Marillion returns at 9th February with a major gig at the Wisla Hall. Takes place in Hala TS Wisla, ul. Reymonta 22. You may know them for songs such as Kayleigh, Heart of Lothian, Sympathy or Garden Party. The band is very much fond of Poland so they always include our country in their tours. Last time they visited Krakow to play on Wianki Midummer Festival in 2006. Just to remind you all – this year’s star was Jamiroqua himself. They did their best pieces, although the concert was not welcomed warmly. This one is to promote their new double album ‘Happiness is the Road’ – clearly they haven’t tired of touring after all these years. Have fun.

The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity – 17th Great Finale

krakowroom — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 15:01:13 +0000

Wielka Orkiestra Świątecznej Pomocy (The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity) is on again!

For those who may not know – Wielka Orkiestra Świątecznej Pomocy (The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity) has set up their Great Finale’s date for 11 of January 2009. What is it, you may ask. Well – only by far the biggest charity fundraising action in Poland. An organization set up in 1992 by it’s charismatic leader Jurek Owsiak works the whole year to organize a series of events of which the biggest is the Final whish is said to play ’till the end of time and one more day’. To make it simple, Orchestra is a whole day concert taking place in almost every polish city and plenty of accompanying events – artists are playing for free and there are volunteers asking for funds to support a good cause. This year all the money goes to buy equipment necessary for EARLY CANCER DIAGNOSIS IN CHILDREN. You can put a note to the box and get a heart shaped sticker and plenty of satisfaction that you have helped those in need. You can support it via internet, telephone, donate an item for on-line auctions or simply leave your apartment and have fun on the concert. One thing is for sure – if you happen to be in Poland this time of the year you can’t miss it. In Krakow the Great Finale takes place on the Main Market Square and in many venues.

Besides humanitarian work, the Foundation is also a powerful medium spreading the ideology of kindness, friendship, tolerance, and openness. In the summer they organize Przystanek Woodstock Festival – an open-air rock festival.

Concert of The Klezzmates

krakowroom — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:59:40 +0000

The Klezzmates recorded their first album in 2005. 2007 has brought their second much better and refined album Reflections. Since then they have been in concert all the time performing mainly abroad – in Germany, Luxemburg, Austria, but sometimes also in Krakow. We remember many of their polish concerts – it’s been always time and money well spent. They are reviving jewish, klezmer music and enriching it with a touch of jazz and ambient. The effect is really great and modern. For something truly remarkable join them for a concert in Galicia Jewish Museum, 18 Dajwor Street, on 28th of January 2008.

2008/2009 New Year’s Eve party – Market Square Krakow

krakowroom — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 11:14:55 +0000

As every December the City Of Krakow invites everyone to join in for a street party to celebrate New Year. The Market Square is usually full of people – partying, listening to concerts performed by stars and there is a fireworks show after midnight. This year we can enjoy concerts played by Leona Lewis, Kate Ryan, Kasia Kowalska, Tatiana Okupnik, Natalia Kukulska – beautiful polish female singers all in one place.

Be there – join the crowd – enjoy. Remember – it’s 31 of December, Market Square. You need to have fun along with a crowd of people and it’s going to be rather freezing – so check our weather forecast for Krakow and be prepared. Have Fun and Happy New Year!

Interested in events taking place in Krakow? Have a look at our brief annual report of what’s going on in Krakow.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

krakowroom — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 10:55:59 +0000

We wish you all the best for the Christmas season and for the whole 2009. Also – thank you all who has been reading our site. More and more people appreciate our website and that makes us happy to provide even better information on our favourite city.

Snow for Christmas in Krakow?

krakowroom — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 19:14:30 +0000

The biggest question for everyone in Poland – is there going to be snow for Christmas this year? The oldest highlanders, said to know a lot about the weather – polish proverb, can’t remember a Christmas season without snow. Let’s hope for lots of snow flakes going down soon. Meanwhile – if you’re curious too keep checking our ‘Weather Report in Krakow‘ page. We update it every day to provide up-to-dated reports on weather in Krakow.

Oscar Schindler’s factory to be opened to public this Spring.

krakowroom — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 19:04:44 +0000

The famous emalien factory located in Kazimierz – which witnessed how one man – German businessman Oscar Schindlers, saved thousands of Jewish citizens of Krakow is going to be open to public as a museum. Made famous by Oscar winning Steven Spielberg film ‘Schindler’s List’ went through complete refurbishment and now is going to serve to commemorate bravery and heroism. We strongly recommend visiting the place. We’ll be there to report and report on it.

Zofia Stryjeńska – art exhibition in The National Museum in Krakow

krakowroom — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:06:57 +0000

There is only couple of weeks left to enjoy truly remarkable art by Zofia Stryjeńska, one of the most original polish interwar artist. Exhibition performs multitude of paintings, theatrical sets, graphic arts, posters, book covers, toys as well as fragments of the decoration from Polish Pavilion at the Paris International Exposition of Modern Industrial and Decorative Art in 1925. Exhibition hosted by National Museum in Krakow, ends January 4 2009.

Exhibition in The National Museum in Krakow – ‘First step towards a collection of Western Contemporary Art’

krakowroom — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:56:51 +0000

Calling all art lovers! – ‘First step towards a collection of Western Contemporary Art’ – a new exhibition has arrived to The National Museum in Krakow. Marked by such names as Nabuyoshi Araki, Miquwl Barcel, Francesco Clemente, Eric Fischl, Mike Kelley, Andreas Slonimski, Andy Warhol the exposition is located in the main building of the Museum and it is truly great. It’s the first time when such huge collection of privately owned masterpieces have found they way to Krakow. It’s main goal is to present the reception of postmodernism in post war Poland. It shows how such trends as pop-art,appropriation art or transavangarde, so important in western culture, inspired polish contemporary art.

Not to be misses by any genuine art enthusiast.

30.05.2008 – 31.08.2009

Harlem Gospel Choir – concert in Krakow

krakowroom — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 20:46:01 +0000

If you’re a gospel fan you can’t miss this event. It’s Harlem Gospel Choir again in Krakow for a series of concerts. They have performed for Pope John Paul II, Nelson Mandella and Elton John. They have done pieces with U2, Gorillaz and the Chieftans. This time it could e you. So if you happen to be in Krakow on 21 December be there.

21 december – Auditorium Maximum UJ – ul. Krupnicza 35, 8pm

32nd Annual Jazz Juniors Festival in Krakow

krakowroom — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 20:42:23 +0000

Jazz Juniors is one of the oldest jazz festivals in Poland. This year is its 32nd year of running! It’s truly one of its kind as it was created to present and promote up and coming unknown Jazz bands from Poland and Europe.

Additionally, this year’s festival features a range of musicians from Polish jazz scene – Paweł Kaczmarczyk, Grzegorz Nagórski Kwartet, Tymon Tymanski and STAŃKO & WAGLEWSKI AKUSTYCZNIe project.

Starts on 3 December, till 7 December – Rotunda Center, Krakow

Programe of 15th International Film Festival ETIUDA&ANIMA

krakowroom — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 12:52:05 +0000

14th November 2008 (Friday)

Kijów Centrum/ Kijów Center, Al. Krasińskiego 34

1 p. m.

Press conference with the participation of Mohsen Makhmalbaf , his wife Marziyeh and daughter Hana (mezzanine)

A meeting of journalists and guests with the eminent Iranian director and educator, this year’s recipient of the Special Golden Dinosaur Award.

3.30 p. m.

Procession of Polish Animation (Kanonicza St. – Market Square – Kijów Center)

To end the celebration of 60 years of Polish Animation, Jerzy Kalina- an outstanding artist and creator of street art will lead from the former headquarters of the Animated Film Studio on ulica Kanonicza a Procession honoring the top creators and the greatest successes of Polish animation.

5 p. m.

Presenting the yearly Special Golden Dinosaur Award to Mohsen Makhmalbaf
The screening of the feature length film: Buddha Collapsed Out of Shame, dir. Hana Makhmalbaf

7.15 p. m.

1st Etiuda competition screening

International student film competition presenting, among others, student shorts from film schools from Poland, Slovenia, Germany, France, Portugal, Australia.

9.15 p. m.

2nd Etiuda competition screening

International student film contest presenting, among others, student shorts from film schools from Poland, Germany, Russia, Hungary.

11.15 p. m.

AGRFT in Ljubljana – Award winner of the Special Golden Dinosaur Award for the Best School of the E&A Festival 2007 presents

A screening of films representing the output of students and graduates from the film school in Ljubljana, the winner of the Special Golden Dinosaur Award for the best film school of the ETIUDA 2007 competition.

15th November 2008 (Saturday)

Kijów Center

11 a. m.

The Saragossa Manuscript – dir.: Wojciech Jerzy Has

An adaptation of the novel by Jan Potocki, whose visits to the Castle in Łańcut inspired the Brothers Quay to make their newest film this year in Poland, “Inventorium śladów” One of the most Internationally renowned Polish feature films. The favorite film of: Martin Scorsese and Luis Bunuel.

Manggha – Centrum Sztuki i Techniki Japońskiej/ Museum of Japanese Art and Technology manggha, M. Konopnickiej Street 26

11.30 a. m.

Animation workshop – Koji Yamamura (I)

Lectures and workshops in the subject of animation lead by Koji Yamamura, last year’s winner of the Golden Jabberwocky- The Grand Prize of the ANIMA 2007 competition

Kijów Center

3 p. m.

3rd Etiuda competition screening

International student film competition presenting, among others, student shorts from the Czech Republic, Denmark, Norway, New Zealand

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

5 p. m.

Kimuak is a program that supports the production and promotion of short films produced in the Country of the Basques. Within the scope of the presentation we’ll have the opportunity to see the best of animation, drama, comedy, and experimental film produced since the start of the decade.

Kijów Center

5.30 p. m.

Special Golden Dinosaur Award on the occasion of the E&A Festival 15th Anniversary for FAMU (Prague) – the best school of the past 15 years

FAMU is one of the oldest film schools in Europe. Its graduates include many outstanding artists, such as: Milos Forman, Jiri Menzel, Vera Chytilova, Jan Sverak, and Agnieszka Holland. We will present a selection of the best student short studies produced over the last 15 years.

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

7 p. m.

Kijów Center

8 p. m.

4th Etiuda competition screening

International student film competition presenting, among others, student shorts from film schools from Argentina, the Czech Republic, Poland, Norway.

0.30 p. m.

Animation Canon of the new century

The jurors of the following ANIMA competitions together with the Festival Artistic Director have entered on a list called “the Animation Canon of the New Century” the best animated films from recent years.

16th November 2008 (Sunday)

Kijów Center

11 a. m.

The Hourglass Sanatorium – dir.: Wojciech Jerzy Has

Another outstanding film, following “Saragossa…”by Woiciech Has based on the Bruno Schulz’s story “The Hourglass Sanatorium” as well as plots from other stories by the writer. We would like to remind Festival goers of this film in expectation of the news that the Brothers Quay are making a new adaptation of the writer’s prose.

Museum of Japanese Art and Technology manggha

11.30 a.m.

Animation workshop – Koji Yamamura

Kijów Center

1 p. m.

Zelig Film School presents

The ZeLIG Film School in Bolzano, Italy is a school focused on shaping future documentary filmmakers, and whose students have been many times awarded at “Etiuda&Anima” festivals.

3 p. m.

5th Etiuda competition screening

International student film contest presenting, among others, student shorts from film schools from Poland, the Czech Republic, Norway, Russia.

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

5 p. m.

Award winners from 15 years of the Etiuda&Anima Festival

A screening of student short narrative and documentary films

A collection of student shorts chosen from the best student films awarded over the fifteen years that the ETIUDA competition has been organized.

Kijów Center

5.30 p. m.

The Brothers Quay’s artistic output – Polish inspirations

Stephen and Timothy Quay, outstanding American animators who for years have been inspired by Central and Eastern Europe. The role of Poland, especially recently, has increased. A specific example of this fascination is their most renowned film “Crocodile Street”

7.30 p. m.

6th Etiuda competition screening

International student film competition presenting, among others, student shorts from film schools from Great Britain, Portugal, Poland, USA, the Czech Republic.

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

8 p. m.

Award winners from 15 years of the Etiuda&Anima Festival

A screening of student animated films

A collection of student shorts chosen from the best animated student films award over the fifteen years of the E&A festival

Kijów Center

10 p. m.

The New Century’s Canon of Animation (II)

17th November (Monday)

Konsulat Generalny Austrii

10 a. m.

Scriptwriting workshop – Robert Gliński

The rector of the PWSFTviT school in Łodź plans to teach professional screenwriters in the oldest Polish film school. In Krakow he will discuss his plans and lead introductory workshops.

Kijów Center

11 a. m.

The 50th anniversary jubilee: A Deadly Invention – dir.: Karel Zeman

Karel Zeman- an eminent representative of the Czech school of animation produced 50 years an adaptation of the Jules Verne story. In a fascinating way the film, which was awarded the Grand Prize at the EXPO 58 in Brussels, combines animation with actors’ performances.

1 p. m.

Etiuda competition jury press conference (mezzanine)

3 p. m.

50 years of Polish Voices (as part of the London Free Cinema screenings)

The presentation of short Polish films as part of a series of screenings at the English film movement Free Cinema in London was one of the first successes of Polish cinema in Western Europe after the October Crisis.

5 p. m.

1st Anima competition screening

International competition of professional, student and independent animated film; short films from, among others Holland, Poland, Russia, Israel, Argentina, Portugal, Belgium

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

5.30 p. m.

Screening of documentary films from the series „The Art of Documentary”

The Polish television station TVP Polonia initiated the production of 12 portraits of eminent representatives of the Polish school of documentary filmmaking. Four of them will be shown at the festival in the presence of one of the featured directors.

Kijów Center

7 p. m.

Michaela Pavlatova

Animator’s self – portraits/ Live animation: Michaela Pavlátová

This Czech artist is well-known from her participation in the film „Carnival of Animals” from last year’s ANIMA competition. This time we’ll get to know her other renowned films and we’ll look in at a animation workshop.

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

7.30 p. m.

Screening of documentary films from the series, “The Art of Documentary”

Bohdan Kosiński, dir. Bartosz Paduch
Bogdan Dziworski, dir. Bartosz Paduch

4 episodes of the series of the films, made by TOProduction for Polish Television Polonia and Polish Television Kultura

Kijów Center

9 p. m.

2nd Anima competition screening

International competition of professional, student and independent animated film; short films from, among others France, Italy, Australia, Great Britain, USA

11 p. m.

World animated feature films
Idiots and Angels – dir. Bill Plympton

The newest film by Bill Plympton- last year’s ”Etiuda&Anima” festival guest. The peculiar history of one angel.

18th November 2008 ( Tuesday)

Kijów Centrum/ Kijów Center

9 a. m.

In the land of animation (I) 60 years of Polish animation for children

60 years of Polish animation has most of been 60 years of the Polish animated film for children. During 5 gatherings a presentation of productions from all the existing Polish animated film studios.

10 a. m.

Directing workshop, camera workshop – led by WRiTv UŚ pedagogues

To honor 30 years of the Katowice WRiTV US school, workshops will be led by students of this renowned college.

Kijów Center

11 a. m.

In the land of animation (II) 60 years of Polish animation for children

1 p. m.

Piano Forest dir. Masoyuki Kojima

A film by the creator of animated TV shows, based on mangha of Makoto Ishii, it tells the story of a boy who wants to take part in a piano competition.

3 p. m.

3rd Anima competition screening

International competition of professional, student and independent animated film; short films from, among others Slovakia, Israel, Poland, Portugal, Belgium.

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

5.30 p. m.

Bezalel Academy of Art &Design presents animated films.

This art college with enormous traditions also offers instruction in the field of animated film, which recently has achieved more and more success all over the world

Kijów Center

5 p. m.

Animator’s self – portraits/ Live animation: Gerrit van Dijk

This Dutch artist was a juror at the Krakow Film Festival in June. His return to Krakow gives us a chance to get to know the artist through his films and a workshop.

7 p. m.

4th Anima competition screening

International contest of professional, student and independent animated film; short films from, among others Italy, Poland, Australia, the Czech Republic, Russia.

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

7.30 p. m.

50 years of success of Prague’s Laterna Magica (as part of EXPO 58 in Brussels)

Laterna Magica is the world famous Prague theater, which for half a century inspires universal admiration for its magical spectacles, dependin on, among other things, the combination of theatrical spectacle with film projections. 50 years ago Laterna Magica achieved enormous success at the EXPO 58 in Brussells.

Kijów Center

9 p. m.

Ten best debut films in the history of Polish animation as chosen by Bogusław Zmudziński – Artistic Director of the E&A Festival

Many Polish animators right from their debut films attracted attention due to the maturity of their personality and the artistic level of their first works.

PTAK/THE BIRD
reż./ dir.: Ryszard Czekała, 1968, 9’
KONFLIKTY/CONFLICTS
reż./dir.: Daniel Szczechura, 1960,8’
FOBIA/PHOBIA
reż./dir.: Julian Józef Antoniszczak, 1967, 11’
ŻEGNAJ PARO!/FAREWELL TO STEAM
reż./dir.: Ryszard Antoniszczak, 1974, 9’25’’
POWRÓT/THE RETURN
reż./dir.: Jerzy Kucia, 1972, 9’
WSZYSTKO JEST LICZBĄ/
reż./dir.: Stefan Schabenbeck, 1966, 7’30’’
LYKANTROPIA
reż./dir.: Piotr Dumała, 1981, 5’
BYŁ SOBIE RAZ/
reż./dir.: Walerian Borowczyk, Jan Lenica,1957, 8’30”
KIERDEL/
reż/dir.: Andrzej Czeczot, Bronisław Zeman, 1973, 6’
I STAŁA SIĘ ŚWIATŁOŚĆ/
reż./dir.: Jerzy Kalina, 1973, 9’

11.15 p. m.

Sita Sings the Blues, dir. Nina Paley

One the newest animated films, enthusiastically taken at festivals worldwide. The first feature length film featuring the multicultural voice of the NYC artist Nina Paley

19th November 2008 (Wednesday)

Kijów Center

9 a. m.

In the land of animation (III)- 60 years of Polish animation for children

Centrum Kultury „Rotunda”, ul. Oleandry 1

10 a. m.

Directing workshop, camera workshop – led by WRiTv UŚ pedagogues

Kijów Center

11 a. m.

In the land of animation (IV)- 60 years of Polish animation for children

Kijów Center

1 p. m.

In the land of animation (V) 60 years of Polish animation for children

3 p. m.

5th Anima competition screening

International contest of professional, student and independent animated film; short films from, among others Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Poland, the Czech Republic.

5 p. m.

Animator’s self – portraits/ Live animation: Mariusz Wilczyński

This multifaceted artist, a graduate of the Fine Arts Academy in Łódź, has had his works exhibited at, among others New York’s MOMA. The creator of many animated films, opening credit sequences, and other audio visual forms will present a collection of his works and will improvise a live animated performance to music by Włodzimierz Kiniorski.

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”
5.30 p. m.

30 years of WRiTv US in Katowice (I)

Founded at the end of the 1960s, the seond film school in Poland to celebrate an anniversary this year. For this occasion we present a choice of the best student shorts, produced at the school over the last three decades.

Kijów Center

7 p. m.

6th Anima competition screening

International competition of professional, student and independent animated film; short films from, among others Russia, Great Britain, South Africa, Norway.

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

7.30 p. m.

30 years of WRiTv in Katowice (II)

Kijów Center

9 p. m.

10 best animated films with Normand Roger’s music as chosen by the composer himself

Composer, editor, and sound designer who has composed more than 100 animated film soundtracks. Normand Roger lectures around the world on music and the use of sound in animation. Six films with the composer’s music have received Oscars.

CRAC! , reż./dir.: Frederic Back, Canada, 1981, 15’
L’HOMME QUI PLANTAIT DES ARBRES / THE MAN WHO PLANTED TREES, reż./dir.: Frédéric Back, 1987, 30’
M.C. ESCHER: SKY AND WATER 1/M.C. ESCHER : L’AIR ET L’EAU 1, reż./dir.: Gayle Thomas, Canada, 1998, 3’25’’
VILLAGE OF IDIOTS, reż./dir.: Eugene Fedorenko, Rose Newlove, Canada, 1999, 12’41’’
FATHER AND DAUGHTER, reż./dir.: Michael Dudok de Wit, Wielka Bryania; Holandia/ UK; Netherlands, 2000, 8’
THE BOY WHO SAW THE ICEBERG/CHŁOPIEC, KTÓRY ZOBACZYŁ LODOWIEC/LE GARÇON QUI A VU L’ICEBERG, reż./dir.: Paul Driessen, Canada, 2000, 8’49’’
WELCOME TO KENTUCKY, reż./dir.: Craig Welch, Kanada/Canada, 2004, 11’53’’
LA FUNAMBOLA / THE TIGHT-ROPE WALKER / LINOSKOCZEK, reż./dir.: Roberto Catani, Francja; Włochy/France; Italy, 2002, 6’
HISTÓRIA TRÁGICA COM FINAL FELIZ /TRAGICZNA HISTORIA Z HAPPY ENDEM/TRAGIC STORY WITH HAPPY ENDING, reż./dir.: Regina Pessoa, Francja; Kanada; Portugalia/France; Canada; Portugal, 2005, 7’46’’
MOYA LYUBOV / MY LOVE, reż./dir.: Alexander Petrov, Rosja/ Russia, 2006, 26’

20th November 2008 (Thursday)

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

11 a. m.

Academic conference: the Polish school of animation in the eyes of world critique

The celebration of 60 years of Polish animation is an occasion to answer the question on how the artistic output of Polish animation is perceived around the world.

Kijów Center

3 p. m.

Greatest international successes of Polish animation (I)

The measure of significance of Polish animation around the world is Polish animation’s international success, especially at film festivals.

5 p. m.

Special Golden Dinosaur Award for Kazimierz Urbańskto on the occasion of the 15th Anniversary of the E&A Festival – founder of the Film Drawing Studio at the Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow and Krakow’s department of Studio Miniatur Filmowych in Warsaw

Kazimierz Urbański is not only one of the main representatives of the Polish school of animation from the 1960s. He is also a teacher at Krakow’s Fine Arts Academy and co-founder of the film studio, known since the 1970s as the Studio of Animated Films. On the occasion of E&A Festival’s 15th Anniversary and 60 years of Polish animation we will present professor Kazimierz Urbański a Special Award

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

5.30 p. m.

In the labyrinth of the Miniature Studio, dir. Jerzy Kalina
Screening of the film produced for the occasion of 50 years of the Miniature Film Studio in Warsaw.

50 years of the Warsaw Miniature Film Studio became an occasion for the production of the anniversary film by Jerzy Kalina which sums up the artistic output of this distinguished film studio.

Kijów Center

7.15 p. m.

Animator’s self – portraits/ Live Animation: Aleksandra Korejwo

This graduate of the Poznań Fine Arts Academy for years has worked in the technique of colored salt. Her specialty is producing animation live, to classical music, directly below a camera. In addition to projecting films chosen by the artist herself, we will also be able to participate in the unique birth of a work of film

National Museum in Krakow – Main Branch „The Samurai Room”

8 p. m.

Animators’ Self-portraits (V)

Konstantin Bronzit

This Russian artist is the well-liked by the E&A Festival creator of the film “At the end of the Earth”. In his humorous films he gives a true lesson in intelligent humor in animation.

Kijów Center

9 p. m.

Hiroshima festival presents Japanese animations

This festival founded by Renzo Kinoshite and his wife Sayoko is held every two years and is one of the most important international events dedicated to animation. We present a collection of the best Japanese films from the last few decades

11 p. m.

Festival in Kecskemet presents Hungarian animation

This festival takes place every three years in Kecskemet, Hungary is one of the most important Central European events in the field of animation. We present a collection of covering Hungarian films from the recent years.

21st November 2008 (Friday)

Kijów Center

1 p. m.

Press conference of the Anima competition Jury

3 p. m.

Greatest international successes of Polish animation (II)

4.30 p. m.

The Bug Trainer – dir. Donatas Ulvydas, Linas Augutis i Marek Skrobecki

A Polish-Lithuanian pseudo-documentary about the puppet animation pioneer Władysław Starewicz.

5.30 p. m.

Krakow composers animated films soundtracks

Among composers who have contributed to the success of Polish animation there are many artists from Krakow, among others: Krzysztof Penderecki, Zygmunt Konieczny, Jacek Ostaszewski, Jan Kanty Pawluśkiewicz, Józef Rychlik i Marek Wilczyński. In a special way we will honor the last among the above mentioned composers who is celebrating 35 years of creative collaboration with the world of animation artists.

8 p. m.

23rd November (Sunday)

8.30 p. m.

Mohsen Makhmalbaf and representatives from his home film school present (VIII)
GEBBEH Reż ./Dir.: Moshen Makhmalbaf, Iran/Francja, 1996, 72’

24th November (Monday)

8.30 p. m.

Mohsen Makhmalbaf and representatives from his home film school present (IX)
KANDAHAR Reż./Dir.: Moshen Makhmalbaf, 2001, 85’

14th-23th November 2008

The National Museum in Krakow in the Szołayski Palace
ul. Szczepańska 11 31-011 Kraków

An exhibit of designs for the film Świteź, dir, Kamil Polak, a Studio Semafor production in Łódź.

Festival club events at Kijów Klub Al. Krasińskiego 34 Kraków (Kijow. Centrum)

Sat Nov 15th 2008

An Evening for Friends of the Festival
Disco Music all night!

Sun Nov 16th 2008

Volunteers’ Party
Dancing queen party 60 & 70 hits

Mon Nov 17th 2008

CMA Festival Party
DJ Frozi & Sax Live!

Tues Nov 18th 2008

Guests’ meeting with Live Jazz !
Katarzyna Radwańska – vocals
Wojciech Wachułka – piano

Wed Nov 19th 2008

Swing Concert Club PRZYJEMNOŚĆ

Magdalena Kasprzyk – vocals
Wojciech Wachułka – piano
Marek Rajss – inst. Perkusyjne Percussion

Thur Nov 20th 2008

Marek Wilczyński’s Evening Jubilee

Invitation required

15th International Film Festival ETIUDA&ANIMA, 14th-21th Nov

krakowroom — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 12:31:10 +0000

The oldest and the most important festival in Poland presenting animated films and student shorts from all over the world. Almost 200 films will be competing for the prices of gold, silver or bronze dinosaurs. Strongly recommended to all films lover – really unique and interesting event.

Programme of 15th International Film Festival ETIUDA&ANIMA

Klezmer Hois – Jewish style restaurant and hotel

krakowroom — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 07:28:08 +0000

KLEZMER HOIS (KLEZMER’s HOUSE) is located in the heart of “Kazimierz”, formerly Krakow’s Jewish Quarter. Right between Miodowa Street and Starowislna Street in the former Mykva building, it is just 70 meters from the famous Remuh Synagogue. With its special atmosphere, artistic climate, live concerts of klezmer music and finest cuisine it is unique place and many think it reassembles the pre-World War II tradition of Jewish Kazimierz.

KLEZMER HOIS is a small Hotel able to accommodate up to 30 guests but also a fine restaurant providing the taste of original Jewish cuisine. Customers can choose amongst many starters, soups, main dishes and deserts. Make sure you try their beetroot soup with cabbage rolls or broth with matza balls. Amongst many delicious main dishes we recommend their Turkey with Almonds or Chicken in Honey and Ginger Sauce. Tasty dessert would accomplish such meal. Occasional live klezmer music makes it a really genuine experience. Afterwards you can take a nice walk over the Kazimierz, visit Galicia Jewish Museum or one of many synagogues.

Centralwings and other cheap airlines down

krakowroom — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 06:42:54 +0000

Have you heard about airlines being cheap some time in the past. You may as well forget it. There is another bad news from cheap airlines world which may have a great impact on international tourism. Centralwings – a polish company which belongs to LOT just cancelled few of not many remaining flights to Warsaw and Krakow. Providing the lowest standard of service and really steep prices during tourists season just cancelled most of European connections. Instead they offer ‘cheap’ flights with their mother-company LOT. To be honest when prices start with £500 so hardly anyone could call that cheap. Same is just about to happen to other cheap airlines. So, unfortunately my report this time is – fewer flights to Krakow, Warsaw, Gdansk.

Sukiennice – Cloth Hall

krakowroom — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:21:27 +0000

Sukiennice (Cloth Hall, Drapers’ Hall) is one of the Krakow’s most recognizable icons. Located in the very centre of Krakow’s Market Square once upon a time served as a centre of international trade, nowadays a surrounded with caffes and galleries tourists attraction and… a centre of souvenir shopping.

Sukiennice was Krakow’s first market place for most of what was interesting for merchant to import and sell since the beginning of 15th century. Spices, silk, leather and wax, everything except for salt which was taken from locally founded Salt Mine in Wieliczka. As the city’s position on economical map of Europe has declined in 17th century, Cloth Hall went downhill along with it.

Other, very similar cloth halls have existed in other Polish as well as other European cities. To mention couple of them – Ypres, Belgium; Braunschweig, Germany; and in Leeds, England.

Wianki + Jamiroquai concert i Krakow

krakowroom — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 06:35:26 +0000

Wianki – Krakow’s Midsummer Festival will he held, as always, on 21 June. As early as 12 o’clock you can attend the competition for the most beautiful maidenhead. Prepare one for yourself – rural believes say that if it’s fished out by Mr. Right you can already start stretching your ears to hear the wedding bells. After that you’re welcome to some music concerts. Artists are June, Bisquit, Mosqitoo, Loco Star, Novika, Smolik. Enjoy. The big event is Jamiroquai concert which is followed by fireworks display. Attend, Enjoy, have a funky evening!

Hebrew Calligraphy Workshop in Krakow

krakowroom — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 11:41:51 +0000

Any interest in hebrew calligraphy – come to Krakow. To learn a lot about the hebrew lettering art you just have to attend a seminar/workashop by Ewa Gordon. The events accompany 18th Jewish Culture Festival in Krakow. – more info in Jewish Festival’s program. One hint – sign up in advance – as the Jewish culture is still in bloom, the workshop has been very successful in the recent years and late entry may be impossible.

6th Pierogi Festival in Krakow – Dumplings Festival

krakowroom — Mon, 26 May 2008 22:21:35 +0000

Pierogi – dumplings – is a simple dish with big tradition of making and eating them in Poland. When you put together couple of rather simple things, such as flour, an egg, and white cheese, make a dough, fill it and boil you just have made pierogi. When you put couple of them on a plate you have a tasty dish of staple food. When you gather plenty of people from all around the world that make pierogi you have Pierogi Festival – the Festival of Dumplings. The number 6th in 2008, is held on 15th and 16th of August . It aim is to promote the richness of Old Polish cuisine among Polish and foreign tourists. The Festival is accompanied by tasting sessions, fairs, artistic events and competitions. You can also vote for the best or lousy dumplings.