Krakow’s market square and St. Mary’s Basilica. The market square of the Old Town of Kraków is the principal urban space located at the center of the city. It dates back to the 13th century and, at nearly 10 acres in size, is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. It is widely regarded as one of the best public spaces in Europe due to its lively street life and beautiful architecture.
The main square is surrounded by historic townhouses and churches. The center of the square is dominated by the Cloth Hall, rebuilt in 1555 in the Renaissance style, topped by a beautiful attic or Polish parapet decorated with carved masks. On one side of the cloth hall is the Town Hall Tower, on the other the 10th century Church of St. Adalbert and 1898 Adam Mickiewicz Monument. Rising above the square are the Gothic towers of St. Mary's Basilica.