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Devastated during World War II, followed by domination by the now-deduct Soviet Union, Poland has today reinvented itself as a thriving democracy in the very heart of Europe.

Traditionally friendly and welcoming, Poles are rightly proud of their country their ancient architecture, scenic beauty, and robust culture as they move freely into the 21st century.

The first stop on anyone's list of things to see is Warsaw, the country's rebuilt capital city, still boasting the Royal Way lined with majestic palaces, churches and cultural museums. A walk through Warsaw Old Town is another must-see during the summer where visitors can cool their heels at nearby Multimedia Fountain Park, as colored lights and dancing water make it come alive at dusk.

Krakow is another of the country's most popular destinations for its sheer atmosphere and physical beauty - seen in a hearty mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture in its own wonderfully preserved Krakow Old Town largely left intact since the 13th century. While touring Old Town, it would be hard miss another of Krakow's main attractions, Main Market Square, surrounded by historic buildings as well as trendy shops, cafes and restaurants.

Poland's major tourist attractions include Warsaw's Old Town (left); Krakow's Main Market
Square; and the stunningly beautiful Tatra Mountains -- Poland's "vacation central" (bottom).

Gdansk is another Polish urban beauty located along the Baltic, and famous for its picturesque buildings that were meticulously restored following the city's total destruction during World War II. Today, Gdansk is equally famous for being the birthplace of the Solidarity movement which played a major role in bringing an end to Communist rule across Central Europe.

Away from the major cities, Poland also offers stunning natural beauty in the Tantra Mountains in south central Poland, especially in the resort town of Zakopane, which many Poles regard as "vacation central" during the summer while remaining a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts during peak skiing season.

DID YOU KNOW? Poland Travel Fun Facts

World War II artifacts on display at Schindler's factory in Krakow.

• If you';re traveling throgh Krakow, don't miss a visit to Oskar Schindler's enamel and metal factory — made famous by Steven Spielberg's 1994 movie, Schindler's List. Schindler's former office has been preserved intact and is now part of exhibit dedicated to his life and the lives of the people he saved by employing them in his factory.

• Located in Wrocław, Piwnica Swidnicka is the oldest restaurant in Europe, operating since 1275.

• Poland has given us scientist Marie Curie, Pope John Paul II, astronomer Copernicus, composer Frederic Chopin, director Roman Polanski, and makeup mogul Max Factor.

• Watching TV broadcasts of the hit holiday film "Home Alone" (dubbed in Polish) is a favorite Christmas tradition in Poland.

• Polish dumplings or pierogi are a national favorite, and one of the most recognizable Polish dishes outside Poland.

also see ->Christmas in Poland

More about Poland tourist attractions around the Web:

Poland National Tourist Office - The official site, with special guides devoted to Eastern Poland, Warsaw, the Lake District, sea front & mountains, with practical travel tips and contact details.

Poland.pl - A complete country directory including the latest news headlines, travel facts & information, recommended destinations, photo galleries.