We had a great weekend in the Lublin region. We spent some time walking through the Lublin Old Town
We got to visit the old Jewish cemetery, this is not usually on the tour as a new cemetery has been built. This is the oldest in Poland. It has not been well maintained, so you can still see the scars of World War II in the form of bomb craters. A very sobering place.
From the cemetery we walked back to Old Town and climbed the bell tower next to the Lublin Cathedral for some breathtaking views of the city. The climb itself was very interesting. Along with the tight round stone stairways, there is a museum that has figurines from various churches and towns. As you climb each floor, there are new things to see. I got a good workout carrying Marlis up all those stairs. You also get to see the 3 bells that are rung for special occasions.
On Sunday, we left Lublin for a tour of the surrounding countryside. After a nice drive we arrived in the spa town of Nalezow. This is a place that is known for lowering you blood pressure, there is a beautiful park. In the center of the park is a sanatorium and a pump room where you can taste the local mineral water (which is well known throughout Poland).
Our last stop was Kazimierz Dolny. A charming little town that is on the banks of the Vistula river. It is a town that is popular with poets and artists. (a lot of folks in artsy black leather). There were many gallerias and shops. We had a very nice meal at the Staropolska restaurant in town.