Luck of the Polish

Unlike Warsaw that saw most of its history and everything that stood for it razed to the ground, Poland's former capitol suffered little damage during the world wars and appears much as it did centuries ago. Why Krakow was spared, no one knows for sure. But German immigrants did build much of what stands today, so perhaps a feeling of entitlement and good German pride were enough to save it from destruction.

It wasn't just German occupation either that threatened this city's history and charm. After all Krakow didn't gain complete independence until after World War II despite its long history. After nearly being destroyed by Tartar raids in the 13th century, it was imperiled by foreign king succession and rule, a Swedish invasion, and numerous partitions by Prussia, Russia, and Hungary. By the time the German's got to it, it was a small miracle the city was still standing!

Krakow hasn't just survived these times discord and potential destruction; it has come out of this harsh history practically unscathed! The inner wall of the city, which protected Krakow from the Tartar invasions, still stands. Jagiellonian University's Collegium Maius has educated its students since the late 15th century. Kings have been coronated on the historic Wawel Hill since 1320. And the prominent Barbican, built in 1499, was never tested in battle.

Perhaps divine intervention played a role in protecting the city for so long. Krakovians actually have a saying that if Rome weren't Rome, Krakow would be Rome. With so many churches – and of course Krakow being the city where Pope JP II's academic, linguistic, and spiritual propensities blossomed – it's difficult not to believe the good Lord had a hand in its survival.

Or perhaps we've simply misjudge European luck all this time. I mean the Irish may have been fortunate, but I think "Luck of the Polish" is a bit more apropos.