Visiting eastern European countries is especially interesting as one sees what is; imagines what was, when gazing at big, old, tattered structures; and wonders what will be when looking at a poor society in a globally stressed world.
Boleslawiec town square still held some of the majesty of past days with buildings up to 4oo years old surrounding it. Homes and farm buildings bore scars of repression under Communist rule. Since 1992 Poland has seen gains for its people, however as we walked Saturday's market, clear signs of a meager lifestyle surfaced. Root vegetables (beets, potatoes, carrots, etc.) dominated vendor stalls. Instead of selling fresh flowers, merchants stocked endless varieties of silk petals.
Village Kliczkow (except for its restored castle, where we slept Saturday evening) was poor. Almost all residents had two things; a chicken coop and unleashed, not very cute, barking hound! (not sure if this was for safety or to annoy others) As night approached, billowing smoke was coming from chimneys, residents were burning garbage. Yuck!
Kliczkow Castle was a delight! Built in 1287 and restored in 2001, the property included a gourmet restaurant, three terraces, stables, spa and beautiful woods around it. It was a great place to kick back and relax, take a siesta listening to chirping birds! (barking mutts were unwelcomed)
Boleslawiec town square still held some of the majesty of past days with buildings up to 4oo years old surrounding it. Homes and farm buildings bore scars of repression under Communist rule. Since 1992 Poland has seen gains for its people, however as we walked Saturday's market, clear signs of a meager lifestyle surfaced. Root vegetables (beets, potatoes, carrots, etc.) dominated vendor stalls. Instead of selling fresh flowers, merchants stocked endless varieties of silk petals.
Village Kliczkow (except for its restored castle, where we slept Saturday evening) was poor. Almost all residents had two things; a chicken coop and unleashed, not very cute, barking hound! (not sure if this was for safety or to annoy others) As night approached, billowing smoke was coming from chimneys, residents were burning garbage. Yuck!
Kliczkow Castle was a delight! Built in 1287 and restored in 2001, the property included a gourmet restaurant, three terraces, stables, spa and beautiful woods around it. It was a great place to kick back and relax, take a siesta listening to chirping birds! (barking mutts were unwelcomed)
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