Stary Rynek, also known as the Old Market Square, is the heart of the Old Town in Poznan, Poland. This historic center measures 140 meters on each side, making it one of the largest squares in the country. Right in the middle of the square, you’ll find a group of buildings that were rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, with the Old Town Hall being the most notable among them. Surrounding the square are rows of buildings that used to be residential but now house restaurants, bars, and pubs, many of which offer outdoor seating.

The square is a major tourist attraction in Poznan, a city that dates back to 1253. The original layout of the city was meticulously planned, with each side of the square divided into 16 equal lots. Over the centuries, the area has seen various architectural changes, with significant alterations occurring in the mid-1500s under the influence of Renaissance style, mainly led by Giovanni Battista di Quadro. These renovations included the town hall and several other buildings facing the square.

If you visit the square, make sure to stop by Brovaria, the city’s most famous brewery, and enjoy a beer. Don’t miss the unique spectacle at noon, when two mechanical goats emerge and butt heads 12 times as the clock strikes 12.

Today, Poznan stands as one of Poland’s oldest and fifth-largest cities. It’s a vibrant cultural and educational hub, currently experiencing a tourism boom and expanding its international air traffic. Poznan-Lawica Airport, in particular, is seeing increased activity with several low-cost airlines like Ryanair offering flights from various European cities.