Sights in Olsztyn
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Castle and Museum of Warmia & Masuria
The most important historic building in town is the massive, redbrick 14th-century castle. Despite its age, it’s in excellent shape and now houses an art gallery, restaurant and open-air theatre, along with the Museum of Warmia & Masuria. Two rooms on the 1st floor are dedicated to astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, who was the administrator of Warmia and lived in the castle for more than three years (1516–20). He made some of his astronomical observations here, and you can still see the diagram he drew on the cloister wall to record the equinox and thereby calculate the exact length of the year. Models of the instruments he used are on display in his former living quarter…
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Museum of Warmia & Masuria Main Annexe
The Museum of Warmia & Masuria main annexe is housed in the former Gazeta Olsztyńska newspaper building. The paper was famed for its outspoken politics under occupation, which swiftly led to the arrest and execution of its publisher in 1940 and the destruction of the offices. Reconstructed, the building now has exhibitions about the city’s and region’s past, and the political role of journalism.
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Rynek
The Rynek (formally called ul Stare Miasto) was destroyed during WWII and rebuilt in a grandiose style only superficially referring to the past. It's best seen at night, when the town hall is lit up with dazzling spotlights and half the population turns out for an evening drink.
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Astronomical Observatory
Copernicus fans can get a bit more hands-on at the astronomical observatory, located in an old water tower out to the east of town. It was enjoying a much-needed renovation at the time of writing; check with the tourist office for observation hours and prices.
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Planetarium
For a dramatic look at the heavens, the planetarium has shows and occasional temporary exhibits. Soundtracks in English, German, French and Russian are generally offered during two shows a day, at noon and 2pm.
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High Gate
The High Gate, the historic gateway to the Old Town, is the only remainder of the 14th-century city walls.
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