Wadowice
The birthplace of Pope John Paul II. Visit his childhood home museum and try the cream cake he loved most.
Wadowice is the hometown of Pope John Paul II (Karol Wojtyła), about 50 km from Kraków. The main attraction is the birthplace museum beside the market square, where a multimedia exhibition traces his life. Entry is by timed reservation (about 35 zloty). Next door, the Basilica of the Presentation of Our Lady is the church where he was baptized. Cafés on the square sell the 'papal cream cake' (kremówka) that he remembered fondly in his later years. It is often combined with a day trip to Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, which is 1 to 1.5 hours away by train or bus.
Opening hours
Former residence museum approx. 09:00–17:00 (until 16:00 in winter)
Nearby sights
- Energylandia
- Kalwaria Zebrzydowska
- Tyniec Abbey
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
- Camaldolese Hermitage in Bielany
- Kościuszko Mound
- Zakrzówek
- Divine Mercy Sanctuary