A Journey Through the Past and the Present
From 12 to 14 August 2025, our community spent three enriching days in Poland on a study trip organized by the Polish Nationality Self-Government of Miskolc. During the journey, we visited Zakopane, Kraków and Auschwitz—three places with distinct historical and cultural identities, yet united by a shared purpose: to remember the past, deepen our understanding of history, and create lasting memories together.
Our first destination was Zakopane, one of the best-known gems of the Tatra Mountains. The breathtaking panorama from Gubałówka left everyone in awe, while the fresh mountain air and the closeness of nature offered a welcome moment of peace and reflection. Alongside the spectacular scenery, we also had the opportunity to experience the region’s rich culture and cuisine. Traditional Polish flavours, local cheeses and the unique atmosphere of Zakopane all contributed to an unforgettable experience.
From there, we continued to Kraków, where our accommodation and a shared dinner awaited us. In the evening, many participants set out to explore the city. Wawel Castle, the sunset over the Vistula River, the fire-breathing Wawel Dragon and the charm of the city’s historic streets created a truly magical atmosphere. Walking through one of Kraków’s parks, we visited the commemorative bench dedicated to mathematicians Stefan Banach and Otto Nikodym, as well as an open-air exhibition about the visits of Pope Saint John Paul II to the city. Our walk ended in the Main Market Square, where Mónika Szabó introduced the group to the square’s most important landmarks and their historical significance, including the Town Hall Tower, the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica, the Adam Mickiewicz Monument and the Church of St. Adalbert. Afterwards, participants were free to discover the evening atmosphere of Kraków at their own pace.
The following morning, most of the group travelled to Auschwitz, while a few participants remained in Kraków. Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum was one of the most profound experiences of the trip, especially in the year marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the camp. The guided tour was conducted with dignity and respect, while the historical background was further enriched by the insightful explanations provided by Gábor Ragulszky. His presentations helped place what we saw into a broader historical context, allowing us to better understand the significance of the site. The visit deeply moved everyone and reinforced the importance of remembrance, education and preserving historical memory.
The evening brought a lighter atmosphere as we attended Kraków’s famous Pierogi Festival. We had the opportunity to sample countless varieties of Poland’s beloved traditional dish while enjoying a lively celebration filled with music, laughter and a wonderful sense of community.
Our final day was spent in Kazimierz, Kraków’s historic Jewish Quarter. Although the Old Synagogue was unfortunately closed for renovation, we were able to visit the Remuh and Tempel Synagogues. Once again, Gábor Ragulszky guided us through the traditions, religious customs and cultural heritage of the Jewish community in an engaging and thoughtful presentation. One particularly memorable moment came when he sang a prayer in Hebrew inside the Tempel Synagogue—a moving gesture that deeply touched all those present. At the end of the programme, participants enjoyed some free time to explore the unique atmosphere and hidden treasures of Kazimierz at their own pace.
During these three days, we not only discovered remarkable places and gained a deeper appreciation of Poland’s history and culture, but also strengthened the bonds within our community. The knowledge we acquired, the places we visited and the experiences we shared have all left a lasting impression on us. We are certain that this journey will remain with us for many years as a treasured memory that connects the past with the present.
The Polish Nationality Self-Government of Miskolc would like to express its sincere gratitude to Bethlen Gábor Fund Management Ltd. for its generous support, which made it possible for members of the Polish community in Miskolc and our Hungarian friends to participate in such great numbers in the study trip entitled “Memory and Tradition: In the Footsteps of Auschwitz and Kraków – A Polish-Hungarian Historical and Cultural Study Tour.”
Written by: Mónika Szabó
Photographs: Mónika Szabó, Judit Zsótér
