An entrance gate with a palisade of pointed stakes and a bridge over the moat: these features have been reconstructed at the “Kaliski gród Piastów” Archaeological Reserve in Zawodzie. Seven reconstructed residential buildings depict a saddler, a castellan, a weaver’s widow, a servant, a knight, a blacksmith and a potter. Alongside the fortifications, the different roles depicted are also a central focus.
Archaeology and city history
The reserve’s recurring outdoor programme includes the “Jarmark Archeologiczny”, held in June. As dates may vary, check the details for your intended visit period before travelling.
Another historical landmark is Kalisz Town Hall, built between 1920 and 1925. Its tower is more than 50 metres high and offers views across the city. The multimedia exhibition is spread across the basement rooms, the third-floor corridor leading to the tower entrance, and the levels of the town hall tower; it ends on a viewing terrace. The town hall thus brings together a building, an exhibition and a viewpoint in one place. As operating details may change, check the latest information about the exhibition before your visit.
Sacred history also has a specific date associated with it: the National Sanctuary of St Joseph in Kalisz was elevated to the status of a minor basilica by Pope Paul VI in 1978. The Muzeum Okręgowe Ziemi Kaliskiej was founded to collect and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of Kalisz and the Kalisz region. Its remit thus focuses on both the city and the wider region.
Ponds, wildlife and recreation in the park
Przyjaźni Park covers more than 11 hectares and lies between Polna, Skalmierzycka and Sułkowskiego streets and Szlak Bursztynowy. Five ponds are connected by dams or separated by bridges. The park is home to fish and wild ducks. Recreational facilities include two playgrounds, an amphitheatre, sports grounds, tennis courts and a street workout area. The waterscape and opportunities for exercise offer distinct features within the same park.
Walking trails and experiences on the Prosna
The “Szlak Ciekawej Architektury Kalisza” is a walking route through Kalisz, about 5.5 kilometres long. The Kaliski Szlak Wiewiórek combines recreation, education and sightseeing, inviting residents and tourists to explore Kalisz actively. The routes have different focuses: one specifies a walk and its approximate length, while the other combines several types of experience. This gives you a practical guide when choosing between a walking route and a broader approach to exploring the area.
You can also see Kalisz from the Prosna: at Przystań Kalisz, pedal boats, kayaks and SUP boards are available to rent. The operation is seasonal; check availability for your visit period. The official tourist information office is at Główny Rynek 20, 62-800 Kalisz. If you plan to stop by, check the opening hours in advance.
Discover more destinations: Kalisz, Nowa Plewnia, Tłokinia Kościelna, Pawłówek, Borek, Wolica, Szałe, Dębniałki, Blizanów, Staw, Żelazków.
For the broader travel overview: Greater Poland.
