Krakowski Kazimierz: Historia i kultura

Kazimierz, from the 14th century the independent town, and from the turn of the 19th century part of Krakow, is characterised by rich history. Despite unfavourable natural conditions (flood terrace of the Vistula River), the settlement of this area was developed due to the vicinity of Krakow and the Wawel Royal Castle. The oldest settlement was established here at the Saint Michael Church on Skałka, now a late Baroque monument, but at that time (11th century) a Romanesque rotunda, related in the hagiography to the murder of the bishop Saint Stanislaus (1079). Nearby, a settlement was developed – at the Saint James Church (12th century?) which does not exist now. On the eastern side, the village Bawół arouse, mentioned from the 11th century. In 1276, it was located according to the German law due to the efforts of the knight Laurence. The church which does not exist now was dedicated to his patron.