The Polish City Steeped In History - Krakow .
Rondo Travel
Prices from £499*
Situated in Southern Poland, Krakow stands as an exemplary destination for educational tours focused on World War II and, particularly, the Holocaust. The city, once home to a flourishing Jewish community, suffered devastation during the Holocaust, and today, it boasts numerous visits and memorials dedicated to honoring and commemorating those who lost their lives.
An exemplary tale of heroism that students can delve into is that of Oskar Schindler, whose factory has been transformed into a museum chronicling both his story and the history of Krakow's Jewish community. Krakow, in close proximity to the notorious Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, is strongly recommended for a visit due to its profound impact on students, providing them with a visceral understanding of the scale and nature of the historical events.
Beyond its historical significance, Krakow offers an opportunity to explore the Cold War era through visits to museums depicting life under the Soviet Union and various other educational sites. A noteworthy visit includes the Socialist district of Nova Huta, where students can observe the architectural style of buildings influenced by the typical Renaissance style of the Soviets.
At Rondo Travel, our commitment lies in comprehending your specific requirements and customising tours to align with your educational objectives, prioritizing your needs over those of the tour operator. Rest assured, all our tours adhere to financial protection standards through the ABTA & ATOL schemes. As proud founding members of the School Travel Forum, we stand among the pioneers in the school tour industry to have earned the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge.
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Destinations in Europe
Wawel Cathedral | Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory | Krakow Ghetto | Nova Huta | Wieliczka Salt Mine | The Cloth Hall | Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp
1. Wawel Cathedral:
-Highlights: Wawel Cathedral, situated on Wawel Hill, is a symbol of Polish national history and a significant cultural site. School visits offer a chance to explore the historic coronation and burial site of Polish monarchs, providing insights into the country's rich heritage and royal traditions.
2. Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory:
-Highlights: This museum, located in the former enamel factory owned by Oskar Schindler, provides a compelling educational experience. Students can learn about the humanitarian efforts of Schindler during the Holocaust, gaining a deeper understanding of the impact of individual actions during historical crises.
3. Krakow Ghetto:
-Highlights: A visit to the Krakow Ghetto allows students to explore the historical remnants of the Jewish quarter and gain insights into the challenges faced by the Jewish community during World War II. It serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and hardships endured during that period.
4. Nova Huta:
-Highlights: Nova Huta offers a unique perspective on socialist architecture and urban planning under the Soviet Union. Students can observe the distinctive Renaissance-style buildings, providing a tangible link to the Cold War era and fostering an understanding of life in a socialist city.
5. Wieliczka Salt Mine:
-Highlights: The Wieliczka Salt Mine provides an underground journey through centuries of mining history. School visits offer a blend of geological education and cultural exploration, showcasing impressive salt-carved chambers, chapels, and sculptures that demonstrate the resourcefulness of past generations.
6. The Cloth Hall:
-Highlights: The Cloth Hall, located in the Main Market Square, is a historic trading venue and architectural masterpiece. School visits enable students to appreciate the significance of medieval commerce, showcasing a diverse array of stalls selling traditional Polish goods, providing insights into the region's economic history.
7. Auschwitz | Birkenau Concentration Camp:
-Highlights: Auschwitz and Birkenau are solemn reminders of the Holocaust, offering a profound educational experience. School visits facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the atrocities committed during World War II, fostering empathy, and encouraging reflection on the importance of human rights and tolerance. The historical significance of these sites makes them crucial for educational exploration and remembrance.
What they will learn
Subjects available: History, Cultural, Art, Farming, Architecture, Fashion and Textiles, Media Studies, Performing Arts, Archaeology, Engineering
The locations mentioned are significant historical and cultural sites in and around Krakow, Poland. Students visiting these places can gain a deep understanding of various historical, cultural, and social aspects. Here's a breakdown of what students can learn at each location:
1. Wawel Cathedral:
-Subjects Covered: History, Architecture, Religion
-Learning Experiences: Students can explore the historical and architectural significance of the Wawel Cathedral, a symbol of Poland's religious and cultural heritage. They can learn about the various periods of construction, the kings and queens buried there, and the role of the cathedral in Polish history.
2. Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory:
-Subjects Covered: World War II, Holocaust, Industrial History
-Learning Experiences: Students can learn about the life-saving efforts of Oskar Schindler during the Holocaust. The museum at the factory provides insights into the experiences of Jews during World War II and the impact of individual actions in the face of adversity.
3. Krakow Ghetto:
-Subjects Covered: World War II, Holocaust, Social History
-Learning Experiences: Students can understand the tragic history of the Krakow Ghetto, witnessing the conditions faced by Jewish residents during the Nazi occupation. It provides an opportunity to discuss the human impact of war and discriminatory policies.
4. Nova Huta:
-Subjects Covered: Cold War, Urban Planning, Social History
-Learning Experiences: Students can explore the history of Nova Huta, a socialist realist planned industrial city built during the communist era. They can learn about the social and political context of its construction and the impact of the Cold War on urban development.
5. Wieliczka Salt Mine:
-Subjects Covered: Geology, Mining History, Cultural Heritage
-Learning Experiences: Students can delve into the geological and historical aspects of salt mining. The Wieliczka Salt Mine provides insights into the technology of mining over the centuries and the cultural significance of the site.
6. The Cloth Hall:
-Subjects Covered: Trade History, Architecture, Cultural Heritage
-Learning Experiences: Students can explore the history of trade and commerce in Krakow at The Cloth Hall. The architecture and layout of the building offer insights into medieval market practices and the economic history of the region.
7. Auschwitz and Birkenau Concentration Camps:
-Subjects Covered: World War II, Holocaust, Ethics
-Learning Experiences: Visiting Auschwitz and Birkenau provides a solemn and educational experience. Students can learn about the atrocities of the Holocaust, the conditions in concentration camps, and the importance of remembering and preventing such horrors in the future.
These sites collectively offer a comprehensive educational experience, covering various historical, cultural, and ethical dimensions that can contribute to a well-rounded understanding of European history and human experiences.
What's included
We understand that each group has specific preferences for their tour, and our dedicated tour manager will collaborate with you to ensure that all your requirements are meticulously addressed. The following is a comprehensive list of generally included features in our tours:
-Accommodation options ranging from Bed & Breakfast to Half-Board and Full Board arrangements.
-Seamless transportation services both within the UK and at your chosen destination.
-Thoughtfully curated visits and excursions to enhance your overall touring experience.
-A detailed and comprehensive tour pack providing essential information and insights.
-A meticulously planned itinerary designed to optimize your time and maximize your enjoyment.
-The presence of a dedicated tour manager available 24/7 throughout the duration of your tour to address any needs or concerns.
-Complimentary staff place at a ratio of 1:10, ensuring cost-effectiveness for group leaders.
Furthermore, it is noteworthy that all our tours now include STF Travelsure insurance, offering additional peace of mind. For further details on this insurance coverage, please refer to our website. We are committed to delivering a comprehensive and worry-free touring experience, tailored to meet the unique requirements of your group.
Transport
For journeys from the UK to Krakow, direct flights are available, departing from various airports across the United Kingdom. It is important to note that all our tours inclusive of flights are safeguarded by ATOL protection, ensuring the financial security and peace of mind for our travelers.
Accommodation
We collaborate with a diverse range of accommodation providers in Krakow, spanning from hostels to four-star hotels. Our dedicated tour manager will meticulously tailor the lodging arrangements to align with your specific requirements, ensuring that the chosen accommodation seamlessly complements the needs and preferences of your group.
Teacher checklist
Risk Assessments, Free Places, Inspection Visit, LOtC, ABTA, School Travel Forum, Adventure Mark, ATOL, Adventure Activity Associates, RYA Centre, IATA, ETOA, Expedition Providers Association, ASDAN Centre
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Guide prices are per person, subject to availability and may vary by departure date, groups size and itinerary. Please ask for details.
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