Wawel Castle

The star attraction of Krakow is Wawel Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and castle complex that was built in the 13th century by King Casimir III the Great. For centuries, Wawel Castle was the residence of Polish Kings, with its medieval, renaissance and baroque architecture. It now contains an art museum with an important collection of Italian Renaissance paintings, tapestries and more. During World War II, when Krakow was the capital of the General Government, Wawel was occupied by Nazi Governor General Hans Frank and many of the important artworks lining its halls were stolen. While much of the collection has been returned, many of the paintings are still missing.