Barbakan (Barbican) (Kraków)

 museum, fortification, Medieval / Middle Ages, Brick Gothic (architecture), interesting place, listed building / architectural heritage, 15th century construction

During the Middle Ages, the Barbican was both a principal gateway and a key element of defence. A covered passageway linked it to St. Florian's Gate, and by day the city's traffic passed through. In times of siege, reinforcements were hurriedly dispatched along the tunnel, whilst archers attempted to beat back the marauders from the many windows and loop-holes.
Today the Barbican has an almost fairy-tale presence. Its seven turrets, like the pointed hats of some woodland sprite, stand out amidst the trees of the Planty. In summer months concerts are sometimes held there, whilst during the daytime it is possible to walk around the interior, explore its nooks, and imagine those sentries of old. Built in 1499 during the era of the Ottoman threat, the Barbican has survived, against all the odds, and remains the best example of its kind in Europe.