Barbican
The Barbican – affectionately known by Cracovians as the "pan" – is a jewel of Gothic defensive art.
Mediaeval Krakow was surrounded by a system of fortifications – walls and a moat, and the city could only be entered by one of the strongly guarded gates. In the early 19th century, the severely damaged walls were demolished, leaving only a fragment memorial at the mouth of Floriańska Street. The Barbican – affectionately known by Cracovians as the "pan" – is a jewel of Gothic defensive art. Preserved next to St. Florian's Gate, it is the beginning of the Royal Route, which once the most important guests followed to Wawel Castle. The Barbican, the gate and the three towers with the preserved fragment of the ramparts remain under the care of the Historical Museum of Krakow, which in summer makes them available to the public.