Warsaw Praga - the other side of the river

Have you ever joined a free walking tour to discover a new city? Just do so, it's more alternative than commercial ones. And have you ever joined an even more alternative tour? In Warsaw it's possible. The guide takes you to the "most dangerous" part of the city, to Praga, a district on the other side of the river. Praga is one of Warsaw's precious historic districts. After world war II this part was ignored by politicians and inhabitants. But now Praga is slowly reintegrated into the city. At least, people living there got a metro station and a shopping mall. Well, it's a start.

It's only a 15-minute walk from the beautiful restored old town, but you feel like far far away. Convince yourself and see some pictures.

Meeting point in the old town

Ruinous backyards in Praga. Nobody is allowed to live here anymore - but you can see clotheslines and kids playing.

During Second World War and the Nazi occupation in Warsaw, Christian symbols should help to hide Jews in these houses.

During communism this used to be a very popular market. You could buy almost everything, even a diploma. Today it's only an abandoned market where people try to stop the march of time.

A different type of front garden.

Holes in walls. Perfect place to play hide and seek?

 

Artists try to turn Praga into a more livable district, also for children.

After an exhausting walk you can relax at Vistula river. At least one reason to go to Praga.

Skyline of Warsaw. Tallest building: Palace of Culture, a gift from the Soviets to the Poles. Some hate it, other people want to preserve it in memory of Communist Era.