Local legends: places associated with history and myths in Szczecin

April 11, 2025

Szczecin, a picturesque city located on the Oder River, is not only an important seaport, but also a treasure trove of fascinating legends and historical sites. Every corner of this city tells its own story, combining elements of historical facts with colorful tales passed down from generation to generation. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the most interesting places in Szczecin, which are inextricably linked to local legends and the city's rich history. From the majestic Wały Chrobrego (Chrobry Embankment), to the symbolic Monument to the Deeds of Poles, to the mysterious Tower of the Seven Coats - each of these places has its own unique story waiting to be discovered. Get ready for a fascinating trip through time and space, during which you will learn not only historical facts, but also magical legends that give Szczecin its unique character. Whether you are history buffs, adventurers or simply curious tourists, Szczecin is sure to delight you with its charm and cultural richness.

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Chrobry Embankment - a symbol of Szczecin and its maritime power

The Chrobry Embankment, also known as Haken's Terrace, is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable landmarks of Szczecin. This impressive architectural complex, stretching 500 meters along the Oder River, was built in the early 20th century and still impresses with its monumental beauty. Waly Chrobrego is located in the heart of the city, on Waly Chrobrego Street, 71-899 Szczecin. The easiest way to get here is to walk from the city center or use public transportation - the nearest bus stop is 'Waly Chrobrego'.

Legend has it that the Waly Chrobrego was built on the orders of King Boleslaw Chrobry, who wanted to celebrate his victorious expedition to Pomerania in this way. Although this is only a legend, and the actual construction took place many centuries later, it is this story that gives the place an extra mythical dimension.

The Embankment of the Brave is open to the public all year round, 24 hours a day. Admission to the observation decks is free, making it an ideal place for a family stroll or a romantic stroll at sunset. However, it is worth remembering that the stairs can be slippery in winter, so use caution.

There are three impressive buildings on Wały Chrobrego: the National Museum, the Provincial Office and the Maritime Academy. Each is open for tours at specific times. The National Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with an admission ticket priced at around 20 PLN for adults and 10 PLN for children (as of 2023).

For families with children, the Chrobry Embankment offers many attractions. In addition to walking and admiring the city skyline, children can enjoy the view of ships docked in the harbor. There is also the 'Waterworks' fountain, which is a favorite playground for the little ones on warm days.

It is worth planning a visit to the Chrobry Embankment during one of the many cultural events that take place here. Days of the Sea, shanty festivals or fireworks shows are just some of the attractions that regularly attract crowds of locals and tourists.

For those looking for additional excitement, we recommend a cruise on the Oder River, which starts right at the foot of the Chrobry Embankment. This is an excellent opportunity to see the city from a completely different perspective and learn about its maritime history.

Near the Chrobry Embankment there are many restaurants and cafes where you can relax and taste local specialties. We especially recommend trying fresh fish, which is a specialty of the region.

Chrobry Embankment is not only a tourist attraction, but above all a place where the history of Szczecin is intertwined with its present and future. It is here that the heart of the city beats, and anyone who has stood on these impressive terraces at least once will always keep in memory the view of the majestic Oder River and the panorama of Szczecin.

The Monument to the Deeds of Poles - a symbol of patriotism and history

Another place that combines history, legend and modernity is the Monument to the Deeds of Poles, also known as the 'Monument to the Three Eagles'. It is located in the heart of Jan Kasprowicz Park, on Julian Falat Street, 70-496 Szczecin. This remarkable place is easily accessible both on foot and by public transportation - the nearest streetcar stop is 'Kosciuszko Square'.

The monument was unveiled in 1979 to commemorate the struggle of Poles to preserve their national identity and return Szczecin to Poland. Legend has it that the three eagles symbolize the three generations of Poles who contributed to the restoration of independence and the return of Szczecin to the Motherland. While this is a symbolic interpretation, it is one that gives the monument a deeper, emotional dimension.

The Monument to the Deeds of the Poles is available for viewing all year round, 24 hours a day. Admission is free, making it an ideal place for an outdoor history lesson. However, it's worth remembering that the paths in the park can be slippery in winter, so use caution.

For families with children, a visit to the Monument to the Deeds of Poles can be an excellent opportunity to talk about the history of Poland and Szczecin. Children can try to find symbolic elements in the monument's construction, which can be an interesting form of learning through play for them.

The monument is surrounded by an extensive park, which offers many opportunities for spending time. The Jan Kasprowicz Park has walking paths, children's playgrounds and numerous benches where you can relax and admire the surroundings. It's an ideal place for a family picnic or active recreation.

Near the monument, a short walk away, is Różanka - a beautiful rose garden, which is especially worth a visit during the rose blooming season (from May to September). This is an additional attraction that can spice up a visit to this part of the city.

For those interested in history, we also recommend visiting the nearby Museum of Technology and Communication, which is located at 18A Niemierzyńska Street. The museum presents a fascinating collection of vehicles and exhibits related to the history of transportation.

In the vicinity of the Monument to the Deeds of Poles, there are several cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy a meal after a walk. We especially recommend the café 'Między Wierszami' at Wojska Polskiego Avenue 48/2, which offers not only good coffee, but also interesting cultural events.

It is worth planning a visit to the Monument to the Deeds of Poles during one of the numerous patriotic events that take place here regularly. The celebration of national holidays or historical anniversaries is an opportunity to see this place in a special, solemn atmosphere.

The Monument to the Deeds of Poles is not only a historical symbol, but also a place to reflect on national and local identity. It is here that the history of Szczecin intertwines with the history of Poland, creating an extraordinary story of the struggle, courage and determination of generations of Poles.

The Tower of Seven Coats - a medieval mystery of Szczecin

The last, but equally fascinating point of our journey through the legendary places of Szczecin is the Tower of the Seven Coats, also known as the Maiden Tower. This medieval structure, which is one of the few remnants of the city's former defensive walls, is located at 47 Panieńska Street, 70-535 Szczecin. The easiest way to get here is to walk from the Old Town or use public transportation - the nearest bus stop is 'Brama Portowa'.

The legend associated with the Tower of the Seven Coats tells of a tailor who was supposed to sew seven coats for Prince Boguslaw, setting out on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The tailor, succumbing to his wife's persuasion, cut the material so sparingly that there was also enough for a dress for his wife. When the prince discovered the deception, he imprisoned the tailor in the basilica, where he had to sew garments for the court on bread and water for six months. This tale gives the basilica a romantic and somewhat mysterious feel.

The Tower of the Seven Coats is available for viewing from the outside all year round. Unfortunately, the interior of the tower is not currently open to the public, as the structure is privately owned. Nevertheless, it is worth seeing this impressive structure up close and feeling the atmosphere of medieval Szczecin.

For families with children, a visit to the Tower of the Seven Coats can be a fascinating history lesson. Children can try to imagine what life was like in the medieval city and what role the defensive walls played. This is a great opportunity to develop imagination and interest in history.

Near the Tower of the Seven Coats there are many other attractions worth seeing. Just a few steps away is the Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes, an impressive Renaissance residence that is well worth a visit. The castle is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with an entrance ticket priced at around PLN 15 for adults and PLN 10 for children (as of 2023).

While strolling around the area, it's also worth taking a look at the Hay Market, a charming square that is bustling with café and restaurant gardens during the summer season. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy local specialties.

For art lovers, we recommend a visit to the nearby City Gallery, located at 8 Prince Msstvoja II St. The gallery showcases works by contemporary artists and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 to 18:00, and admission is free.

It is worth planning a visit to the Tower of the Seven Mantles during the evening hours, when it is spectacularly illuminated. Such scenery gives the tower an even more magical character and allows you to fully appreciate its architectural beauty.

To sum up our tour of Szczecin's legendary sites, it is worth noting that each of them - the Wały Chrobrego, the Monument to the Deeds of Poles and the Tower of the Seven Coats - offers a unique perspective on the city's history and culture. Combining elements of historical facts and fascinating legends, they form an unforgettable mosaic that makes Szczecin a unique city worth discovering. Whether you are history buffs, adventurers or simply curious tourists, Szczecin is sure to delight you with its charm and cultural richness.

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