Homo Sovieticus- Communist walking tour around Praga Północ

Praga, Warsaw, Warsaw



This tour will take us around the rapidly-changing area of Praga and it's highlights. We will go inside an NKVD cell and also walk around Bazar Różycki, where guests will have some time to shop.

Highlights

  • Enter a former NKVD interrogation cell
  • Explore Bazar Różycki with free time to browse or shop
  • Visit the former NKVD headquarters

Description

We meet at one of the few Soviet-era memorials still standing, Kościuszko Infantry Division Memorial, right on the river. We will start by discussing the situation in Praga just as WW2 was coming to a close, including why the area avoided the destruction that happened across the river during the uprising. Then we head up the road and go to one of the former NKVD headquarters where we will discuss the activities of the future-KGB here in Warsaw. And next, we have a few stops that will shift focus and discuss culture during the Communist era, the Praga Backyard Band Memorial and Kino Praha. And then one of the highlights of the tour, Różycki Bazaar, we will discuss shortages, shopping and the black market before walking through the bazaar, then guests will have a little time in case they wish to buy a souvenir to take home. We will then see a very picturesque cathedral and discuss the role of religion during the communist era, including the Polish Pope John Paul 2nd. Next, we will check out the tribute to one of Poland's greatest footballers Kazimierz Deyna, talk about sport during the PRL, including the famous match against England, and, if we are lucky, peek into the famous shoe shop next door. We will head up to one of the other highlights of the tour and go inside an NKVD interrogation room preserved by the city. Some of the other stops along the way include: Praga's famous courtyard shrines, the street where they filmed the Pianist (an opportunity to discuss the Łódź film school and some of Scorsese's favourite movies), some of Praga's famous street art/murals. We finish within walking distance of Praga Koneser, a former vodka factory now a nice place to hang out, eat something or buy some souvenirs.

Includes

Walking tour + information Entrance to an NKVD interrogation cell A little free time to explore the bazar and potentially buy gifts

Important Information

  • Some of the themes are dark including torture etc so may not be appropriate for young children

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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