IRISH VISIT TO KRAKOW 

24th-28th FEBRUARY 2014

Monday

We had an amazing experience on our first day in Krakow visiting the Salt Mines.  The mines date back to the 13th century.  There are thousands of steps to underground corridors and different terraces which one can walk down. The visit takes you to 3 out of the 6 galleries and you cover ~ 3kms on the tour. 

Along the way there are fascinating sculptures made out of salt.  For centuries, salt was picked by hand and carried up to the surface.On the bottom level is a chapel all made from salt. Just awesome, sculptures of Christ and the Apostles and even the tiled mosaic floors all made centuries ago.

Tuesday

We were met by host Anna and brought us to our first stop - Day ward.  Here we had the opportunity of presenting a slide show on Our Lady’s Hospital school to any pupils who were available.  As our Polish was limited, two of the students very kindly translated for us.  

With the help of some of the students, a beautiful lunch was prepared for us under the watchful eye of Anya.  Traditional Polish fare consisting of a vegetarian nut roast, salads and the most delicious borscht soup.

Wednesday

After meeting our Comenius partners in the morning, we were brought to the psychiatric wards of St. Ludwik’s Hospital.  Here we had the opportunity to share the story of St. Patrick, (patron saint of Ireland) with the pupils (8-12yrs) of this hospital school.  Afterwards, we did a craft class helping the students to make shamrock decorations with recycled  materials.  

After lunch, we worked with some older pupils making hanging mobiles of paper flowers from old magazines.  This session was enjoyed  by all.  

Thursday

After meeting up together in the Day ward @ 10:a.m., the students participated in a baking class led by the Irish.  We made some traditional Irish savoury scones, which were promptly eaten!!

We had an afternoon full of culture and beauty, thanks to our lovely guide Andrej who leads us through the streets, the wonderful churches, the rich past history of Krakow. We visit the Jagellonian University, the coloured squares and  the Wavel castle.  That night we had a lovely meal in the company of our Polish colleagues.

Friday

Accompanied by some of the pupils and teachers,  we visited the Jewish Quarter, where, in an old synagogue, we take part in a workshop on traditional Jewish wedding dances.  Across the square, we got the opportunity to visit the Jewish graveyard and learn about Jewish traditional burial ceremonies.

Annette & Brenda