Townscape and its Symbolism: The Experience of Kraków, Poland

Abstract

During the past two centuries the historic townscape of Kraków, Poland, has increasingly been venerated as a tangible symbol of Polish national identity, a role reinforced by the turbulent and often tragic history of the country itself. As the old capital of Poland, home of its royal dynasties until the sixteenth century, and location of the cathedral which serves as national pantheon, the city has many historic monuments which are inextricably associated with the concept of Poland as a nation and with the experiences of the Polish people. Aspects of the symbolic nature of the townscape can be traced back to the thirteenth century, but the idea was given much sharper emphasis after Poland lost its independence in 1795. This symbolic role is not, however, simply a matter of sentiment, for it has had a far-reaching practical impact upon the development of the townscape itself. City authorities, external aggressors and hostile governments have adopted policies to enhance or denigrate the townscape specifically because of its iconic significance. The article considers the practical impact of symbolism and its changing character, and discusses the language in which the concept has been expressed both in the past and today.