Olsztyn, one of the greenest cities in Poland, is the capital of the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship. Its history dates back to the fourteenth century, and for several centuries, the city was associated with the Warmian bishopric. The city is also famous for Nicolaus Copernicus, who lived in the Olsztyn Castle for five years.
Olsztyn is picturesquely located among moraine hills and post-glacial lakes of Warmia. Within the city there are as many as 15 lakes, the largest of which are Ukiel and Kortowskie lakes. On their shores there are beaches and water sports centers.
Olsztyn was founded in the first half of the 14th century as the property of the Warmia Order. The most important memento of this period is the Gothic Castle of the Warmian Order, where in the years 1516-1521 lived Nicolaus Copernicus. Currently the interior of the castle houses the Museum of Warmia and Masuria. Its collections include archives, items from archeological sites, liturgical objects belonging to the Order, memorabilia of Nicolaus Copernicus and collections of folk art.
The Old Town in Olsztyn was founded in the Middle Ages. To this day, the urban layout characteristic for the cities of this period and a part of the former buildings has been preserved. The most valuable monuments include St. Jacob's cathedral from the 14th century, from the tower of which you can admire the panorama of the city, the city gate and the Old Town Hall.
The connection between Olsztyn and the cosmos is not only the person of Nicolaus Copernicus, but also the modern astronomical observatory and the planetarium. They organize sky displays, star observations, workshops and exhibitions.
