Praga-Północ is one of the oldest districts in Warsaw. The majority of the buildings in this area have preserved their historical origins. There are many streets remained undamaged in WW II. The district is a must-visit place for tourists because of its mysterious atmosphere. In Praga, you can find abandoned ancient buildings, old street markets, unknown people saying “hello” to you all the time, parties at backyards where you always welcome. I will try to describe the most interesting places to visit there.
- Ancient buildings
There are many ancient buildings at Brzeska, Ząbkowska, and Targowa streets. The locals name this place a “Bermuda Triangle” because, some time ago, people used to disappear in the dark backyards without a trace here. Now the district is not so criminal. Many buildings stay abandoned, and you can investigate them without any fears or problems. Even if now the “Bermuda Triangle” transformed into a much safer place, better not to go there alone after the darkness.
2. Graffiti
They are very different, covering many thematics. Some of them are on historical topics( such as Warsaw Resistance), others are copies of famous Polish masterpieces, hippie style, music or modern art, etc.
3. Matki Boski
Matka Boska is a statue of a God’s Mother – one of the symbols of the district. They are usually located in the backyards or on the walls. Locals are still looking for them, putting candles and flowers, even if some buildings have already become ruins. The vast majority of chapels come from the occupation period. Many people had difficult access to churches. Placed in Warsaw’s backyards, they became places where everyone could freely pray.
4. The most popular street from movies
It’s Mała (Small) street. Due to the preservation of almost all the old buildings, Mała Street has repeatedly served as a film set, pretending to be pre-war Warsaw. The street became a famous photographic location, among others in the films Pianist of Roman Polański and Korczak by Andrzej Wajda.
5. The beach with the most beautiful view
The best place to watch beautiful sunsets over the old town is in the Plaża Rusałka. There also some bars with summer photo zones and music.
