Poland has about 40 million inhabitants and is the largest country in Central Europe. Krakow is a beautiful city, full of historical spirits, buildings, places and legends. A former capital of Poland, Krakow is still one of its most important urban centres. The population of Krakow is about 800000. The city is of social, economic and cultural significance; its importance is more than just regional. There are 11 universities here, including the Jagiellonian University - founded in 1364, being the oldest in Poland and the second oldest in Central Europe. Approximately 70000 students are studying in Krakow. Krakow is the seat of a branch of the Polish Academy of Sciences. The Jagiellonian Library is one of the best and most famous in Poland. Krakow's theatres, especially "Teatr Stary" (The Old Theater) and "Tadeusz Kantor Theatre - Cricot 2" are greatly admired in Poland and beyond. Krakow has 11 other theatres, a philharmonic, dozens of art galleries and about 50 museums. The most celebrated feature of historic and contemporary Krakow is its Main Market Square - one of the largest in Europe. Krakow's surroundings are also stunning and worthy of visit. At Wieliczka, not far from the city, is one of Europe's oldest salt mines.

Travel to Krakow is easy. The city has an international airport. It is part of the Intercity Rail Network, with an hourly train service from Warsaw (covering the 300 km in 2h 40min run). Interurban buses also serve the centre of Krakow, and local buses connect the airport with the city centre (journey time, 20 - 30 minutes).

THE SYMPOSIUM VENUE

The Symposium will be held in the old facilities of Jagiellonian University, in the recently renovated Larische Palace. It is situated within 2 minutes' walk from the famous medieval Old Town Market. The Larische Palace is at 12 Bracka Street (see Map of the area). All hotels and dormitories are also located within a short walking distance from the symposium venue.