Rakowicki Cemetery in Krakow

Rakowicki Cemetery is one of the most important necropolises in Krakow, located on Rakowicka Street. Established in the 19th century by an edict of the Austrian authorities, it replaced former church cemeteries in the city center. Its central point is a chapel funded by the Helcel couple, from which avenues radiate outward. Strolling through, visitors can admire numerous historic tombstones and sculptures of high artistic value, designed by renowned Krakow artists. It is also the final resting place of many distinguished Poles, including Jan Matejko, Wisława Szymborska, Tadeusz Kantor, and the Kossak brothers. The cemetery features a monument commemorating the uhlans who fell in the famous charge at Rokitna in 1915. Inscriptions on graves in Polish, German, and Cyrillic recall the multicultural history of Galicia. The site is listed as a historical monument, and many tombs are undergoing restoration. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, admission is free. It is an ideal place for a peaceful walk, especially in autumn when the trees are ablaze with color.