Editor's Note: These are courtesy translations of local news provided by the U.S. Army Garrison Poland Public Affairs team for the benefit the military community stationed here. Views or opinions are not endorsed by USAG Poland or the U.S. Army.
Explore Poznań on Foot with Free Weekly City Walks
Discover the fascinating history and hidden corners of Poznań with free guided walks hosted every Sunday by the PTTK Guides Association. These popular tours, enjoyed by over 4,000 people last year, offer a unique opportunity to explore the city with knowledgeable guides who bring history to life.
From the city center to the outskirts, each walk unveils a different aspect of Poznań:
March
- March 8 (Saturday, special event): "Winiary" - 11:00 a.m., Church of St. Stanislaus Kostka
- March 9 (Sunday): "In the name of the common good - 150th anniversary of the birth of the President of Poznań, Cyryl Ratajski, part I" - 11:00 a.m., Andersa Square (C. Ratajski monument)
- March 16 (Sunday): "In the name of the common good - 150th anniversary of the birth of the President of Poznań, Cyryl Ratajski, part II" - 11:00 a.m., Wieniawskiego Street (UAM auditorium entrance)
- March 23 (Sunday): "Organic Poznań" - 11:00 a.m., Wolności Square (Raczyński Library near Higiei)
- March 30 (Sunday): "Secrets of Wrocławska Street" - 11:00 a.m., Wrocławska Street exit (near Kupiec Poznański)
April
- April 6 (Sunday): "Jeżyce Secession for beginners" - 11:00 a.m., Krasińskiego Street (Krystyna Feldman's alley)
- April 13 (Sunday): "Secrets of downtown Poznań" - 11:00 a.m., Cyryla Ratajski Square (tram stop)
- April 21 (Monday, special event): "Emaus" - 11:00 a.m., Kolegiacki Square
- April 26 (Saturday, special event): "Sołacz" - 11:00 a.m., Intersection of Nad Wierzbakiem Street and al. Wielkopolska
- April 27 (Sunday): "A walk on the anniversary of the death of Ferdynand Franciszek Jaśkowiak to the boulder in the Morasko Meteorite reserve" - 11:00 a.m., Tram terminus on Jan III Sobieski Estate
May
- May 4 (Sunday): "Jewish Poznań part III" - 11:00 a.m., R. Wilhelmi Square at Masztalarska Street
- May 11 (Sunday): "Poznań scandals" - 11:00 a.m., Olimpijska Street (square in front of the E. Szyc Stadium)
- May 17 (Saturday, special event): "Winiary, which are no more" - 11:00 a.m., Bonin tram stop
- May 18 (Sunday): "Botanical Garden" - 11:00 a.m., Dąbrowskiego Street (Botanical Garden entrance)
- May 24 (Saturday, special event): "In military formation" - 11:00 a.m., Corner of Grunwaldzka and Stolarska Streets
- May 25 (Sunday): "Around the Poznań Fair" - 11:00 a.m., Bukowska Street (entrance to the MTP grounds)
June
- June 1 (Sunday): "Wilson Park" - 11:00 a.m., Głogowska Street (park entrance)
- June 7 (Saturday, special event): "Janina and Władysław Czarnecki - in the footsteps of outstanding architects" - 11:00 a.m., Old Market Square (Proserpina fountain)
- June 8 (Sunday): "Marceli Motta and Poznań of his times" - 11:00 a.m., Bernardyński Square (near the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord)
- June 15 (Sunday): "The Nation for Itself - 150 Years of Polish Theatre, or the History of Polish Theatre in Prussian Poznań" - 11:00 a.m., Wolności Square (stairs to the Arkadia building)
- June 29 (Sunday): "Poznań Uprising 1956" - 11:00 a.m., Mickiewicz Square (Poznań June 1956 monument)
Participation is free, although donations to support the guides are welcome.
For more information, visit the PTTK Guides Association website: https://www.przewodnicy-pttk.org/pl/strona-glowna/
Fly Direct from Poznań to Amman, Tel Aviv & Valencia this Summer
Ryanair has announced its flight schedule for the summer season.
As the Irish airline announced, a dozen or so new routes will be launched from our country, including three from Poznań. For example, from March 30, we will be able to fly from Poznań Ławica to Amman in Jordan once a week (Sunday). This is not a completely new connection, because it was launched in 2021, only to be suspended later.
Connections to Tel Aviv will also return to the flight schedule. From Poznań, we will fly there twice a week from March 31. On Mondays and Wednesdays.
A real novelty for Poznań residents will be another destination - Valencia. From March 31, we will fly to Valencia from Poznań twice a week (Mondays and Fridays).
Last Chance to See Stunning Butterfly Display at Poznań Palm House
Experience the magic of hundreds of exotic butterflies flitting freely around you at the Poznań Palm House! Until March 23rd, Pavilion VIII transforms into a vibrant butterfly oasis, showcasing these colorful insects in a stunning, plant-filled environment.
"Visitors will be delighted as butterflies flutter amongst the foliage, creating a truly magical experience," shares Aleksandra Tomczyk from the Poznań Palm House. "With a bit of luck, one might even land on you!"
This unique exhibition is included with regular Palm House admission:
Regular Tickets: PLN 19
Concession Tickets: PLN 15
Tickets can be purchased at the Palm House ticket office or online.
The Palm House is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with last entry and ticket sales at 5:00 p.m. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the beauty and wonder of these fascinating creatures!
Poznań Honors Cyryl Ratajski on 150th Anniversary of His Birth
Poznań paid tribute to Cyryl Ratajski, its influential pre-war mayor, on the 150th anniversary of his birth with a commemorative ceremony and a nationwide scientific conference.
On March 3rd, dignitaries including Poznań Mayor Jacek Jaśkowiak and City Council Chairman Grzegorz Ganowicz, laid wreaths at Ratajski's grave at the Cemetery of Meritorious Greater Poland Citizens and at his monument on Anders Square.
Following the ceremony, a nationwide scientific conference organized by the Poznań Society of Friends of Science, Poznań City Council, Society of Friends of the City of Poznań, and various scientific and cultural institutions, delved into Ratajski's lasting impact on the city and Poland.
"Remembering such an outstanding Poznań resident is crucial," emphasized Mayor Jaśkowiak. "Cyryl Ratajski's accomplishments extended beyond our city. He served as mayor three times and as Minister of Internal Affairs during challenging political times. He is a legendary figure worthy of remembrance."
The conference explored Ratajski's legacy as both mayor and national figure, highlighting:
- His leadership as mayor: Including his modernization efforts, development of city infrastructure, and relationship with the Sanation government.
- His wartime contributions: Detailing his involvement in the Polish Underground State and his role as Government Delegate for the Country.
- His lasting impact: Examining his influence on Poznań's urban development, symbolic space, and future generations.
“This conference helps us appreciate Cyryl Ratajski not only as the mayor of Poznań but also for his accomplishments as a minister and Government Delegate for Poland during World War II,” noted Chairman Ganowicz.
A year-long celebration of Ratajski's legacy is planned, with several events and publications:
- Digital Collection: The Posnania Municipal Publishing House has launched the "Cyryl" platform, offering a digital collection of photos and memorabilia.
- November Exhibition: The Wielkopolska Museum of Independence will host an exhibition titled "Poznań of Cyryl Ratajski."
- Monograph Publication: A monograph by Andrzej Zarzycki, focusing on Ratajski's life and work, will be published later this year.
- Special Edition Publication: A special edition of the "Kronika Miasta Poznańia" dedicated to Ratajski is slated for release in early 2026.
Cyryl Ratajski: A Life Dedicated to Poznań and Poland
Born on March 3, 1875, in Zalesie Wielkie, Ratajski studied law at the Friedrich Wilhelm University in Berlin. He played a crucial role as a liaison during the Wielkopolska Uprising. As mayor of Poznań from 1922-1934, he spearheaded the city's modernization and infrastructure development. During World War II, he dedicated himself to organizing the Polish Underground State. He died in Warsaw on October 19, 1942.
E-parking enforcements roll out in Poznań
Poznań has launched a new era of parking enforcement with the introduction of camera-equipped vehicles that electronically monitor paid parking zones. Two vehicles have hit the streets, with plans to expand to a fleet of five or six.
These high-tech vehicles are equipped with specialized cameras and sensors that automatically scan license plates to verify parking payment. The system checks for payments made through parking meters, mobile apps, or banking apps, as well as valid parking permits or subscriptions.
"This is a significant step in modernizing Poznań's paid parking system," said Mayor Jacek Jaśkowiak. "E-control is already being implemented in other major Polish cities, and it brings numerous benefits."
How the System Works:
- Scanning: E-control vehicles patrol designated paid parking zones, scanning license plates.
- Verification: The system cross-references scanned license plates with parking payment records.
- Notification: If no payment is found, a notice of an additional fee is issued to the vehicle owner's address.
- Payment: Drivers have 14 days to pay a reduced fee of PLN 200. After 14 days, the fee increases to PLN 350.
Addressing Concerns and Highlighting Benefits:
Mayor Jaśkowiak emphasized that e-control will not replace traditional parking enforcement officers. Pedestrian patrols will continue to operate alongside the new system.
The implementation of e-control is part of a broader effort to improve parking in Poznań. Recent advancements include:
- Modernized Parking Meters: 249 outdated parking meters have been replaced with modern units offering digital tickets and electronic payment options.
- Expansion of Paid Parking Zones: The paid parking zone has expanded to include areas like Wilda, Łazarz, Zagórze, Ostrów Tumski, Śródka, and areas near the Poznań University of Technology.
- Revenue Sharing: Housing estate councils receive PLN 5 million annually for street modernization projects funded by parking revenue.
- Tax Incentives: Starting in September, Poznań residents who declare their address on their tax forms will be eligible for reduced parking rates in paid zones.
Data Collection and Analysis:
In addition to enforcement, the e-control vehicles will collect data on parking space occupancy and vehicle turnover. This valuable information will help the city analyze parking patterns and optimize parking management strategies.
The e-control system is currently operational in Wilda, Łazarz, Stare Miasto, Śródka, Zagórze, and areas surrounding the Poznań University of Technology. Jeżyce will be integrated once its parking meters are upgraded.
Poznań Celebrates Grand Opening of Berdychowskie Bridges
Poznań has unveiled its newest architectural marvel – the Berdychowskie Bridges – connecting the vibrant districts of Chwaliszewo, Ostrów Tumski, and Berdychowo. The official opening on February 28th drew large crowds eager to be among the first to experience the new pedestrian and cyclist crossings over the Warta River and the Relief Canal.
"These bridges are destined to become an iconic landmark for Poznań, enjoyed by residents and tourists alike," proclaimed Mayor Jacek Jaśkowiak during the evening ceremony. "They not only provide a vital transportation link between the historic Old Market Square and the recreational areas along the Warta River but also strengthen the connection between the city and its waterfront."
A Triumph of Design and Engineering:
The minimalist design, developed by a team of renowned architects and engineers, emphasizes clean lines and expressive forms. The bridges are illuminated by a stunning lighting system integrated into the handrails, creating a captivating visual display after dark.
Key Features of the Project:
- Warta River Bridge: 165 meters long
- Relief Canal Bridge: 117 meters long
- Accessibility: New access roads, stairs, and ramps ensure easy access for all.
- Landscaping: The surrounding area has been enhanced with greenery, benches, and other elements of street furniture.
- Infrastructure Improvements: The intersection of Berdychowo and prof. Jacek Rychlewski streets has been reconstructed.
The project, completed in just 15 months, underscores the city's commitment to creating attractive and functional public spaces.
Final landscaping and finishing touches are currently underway, with the contractor expected to complete the remaining work in the near future.
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