Europe : Poland

The Republic of Poland is bordered by German, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, Russia, and the Baltic Sea. The state of Poland was formed over a millennium ago, and reached its Golden Age at the end of the sixteenth century—it was then the dominant country in Europe, and one of the richest. In the late eighteenth century, Poland voted in the world's second written constitution (after that of the U.S.), and Europe's first. The constitutional government ended a few years later when Russia, Austria, and Prussia claimed and partitioned the country. Poland regained its independence after World War I, only to be invaded by Germany on the eve of World War II. At the end of the war, the country was absorbed into a communist satellite state of the USSR. Through the efforts of the Solidarity and other movements, the Polish people overthrew communism; today the country is a full member of the EU. Poland offers something for visitors of every interest. Nature enthusiasts can explore the rocky crags of the Tatra Mountans, the golden beaches of the Baltic, the network of Mazurian Lakes, and the verdant wilds of the Biesczczady Mountains. Historians will enjoy visiting the royal castles and palaces, museums redolent of bygone eras, and the many painstakingly restored old town complexes. Poles are famously hospitable who welcome everyone with warmth and affection. Despite Poland's turbulent history, Poles have vigorously maintained their distinct sense of culture and community.

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