Grunwald Monument

On Matejko Square, just outside Kraków’s Old Town walls and opposite the Barbican, the Grunwald Monument commemorates the 1410 Polish-Lithuanian victory over the Teutonic Knights. King Władysław Jagiełło sits on horseback above figures that represent fallen enemies and victorious soldiers. Take a closer look at the sculpted scenes, then turn toward the Barbican for a view of its towers. It is an easy stop to add while walking near the Old Town or beginning the Royal Route.

A monument to the 1410 battle

The monument commemorates the Battle of Grunwald, fought on July 15, 1410. Polish and Lithuanian forces defeated the Teutonic Knights in one of the major battles of medieval Europe. The monument was built for the battle’s 500th anniversary, in 1910.

At its centre is King Władysław Jagiełło on horseback. Figures below him depict fallen enemies and victorious soldiers, turning the base into a scene of conflict and triumph. Walk around it to take in the sculpted details from different angles.

Matejko Square and the Old Town

The monument stands on Matejko Square, outside Kraków’s medieval walls and opposite the Barbican. Its location makes it a convenient stop on a walk around the Old Town; the Royal Route begins nearby.

In front of the monument is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a cenotaph for Polish soldiers killed on battlefields. During ceremonies, a bronze candle on its marble pedestal is lit. The monument and tomb together make the square a place of both victory and remembrance.