Rakowicki Cemetery is one of Kraków’s most important sites of memory and history — a place where historic funerary architecture stands alongside the graves of people who shaped culture and science. Around All Saints' Day many visitors wish to combine remembrance with a short talk about the figures buried here. It’s a good moment to tell stories about generations and the symbolism of places of burial.
This route is designed for organized groups of 30–60 people — schools, parish groups, associations or companies. It has an educational walking character, focusing on the best-known graves and short anecdotes so the group’s attention is maintained and the visit fits within 60–90 minutes.
1) Main entrance / meeting point by the tram loop — easy access, nearby sanitary points and small food vendors. 2) Main alley — introduction to the cemetery’s history and layout. 3) Jan Matejko’s grave — discussion of the painter’s role and the symbolism of his tomb. 4) Kossak family tomb — a short story about the family and their cultural contribution. 5) The tomb of Count Emeryk Hutten-Czapski — a collector and museum donor. 6) Avenue of the Distinguished — here you will find, among others, Marek Grechuta’s grave. 7) Wisława Szymborska’s plaque — an example of a modest memorial to a famous Nobel laureate. 8) The Wojtyła family memorial — a brief reflection on how family history can shape public lives.
Rakowicki Cemetery contains graves and commemorative plaques of nationally recognized figures, including Jan Matejko, Wisława Szymborska, Marek Grechuta and members of the family of Karol Wojtyła (later Pope John Paul II).
A walking route around the most important monuments at Rakowice is about 1–1.5 km depending on the variant and starting point; a short family-friendly route described in some guides is roughly 1.2 km.
The city and local institutions regularly use the cemetery for educational walks, showing that the site is widely used for public and cultural activities.
- Split into subgroups: for comfort of listening and moving, divide 30–60 people into 2–3 subgroups (for example 20–30 people each). This helps with smoother movement, shorter stops and the ability to get closer to monuments without crowding paths.
- Radio systems / guide amplification: for groups larger than 20 people, microphones with a transmitter and individual earpieces for participants are very helpful so everyone can hear without clustering around the guide.
- Wristbands/ID and stewards: appoint 1–2 people from the group to act as stewards who help keep pace and check headcount.
- A printed map for the leader and copies marking key points make orientation and route control much easier.
- Transport and meeting points: the most convenient meeting places are the Rakowice tram loop or the main gate; there are usually stops and basic sanitary infrastructure nearby.
- Traffic and city organization: around All Saints' Day traffic plans can change and public transport gets busier. When scheduling a group trip, check municipal announcements a few days in advance and tell participants the recommended travel options and arrival times.
Municipal cemeteries may have rules regarding group events, photography and movement. If you plan an official act (mass, wreath-laying, speeches), contact the cemetery administration and the district office in advance to confirm requirements and space availability.
- 0–10 min: gathering, explanation of cemetery etiquette, short historical introduction. - 10–20 min: main alley and Jan Matejko’s grave — short talk and time for photos. - 20–40 min: walk to the Hutten-Czapski and Kossak graves — stories about collecting and art. - 40–55 min: Avenue of the Distinguished — Marek Grechuta, Wisława Szymborska; short readings or anecdotes. - 55–70 min: the Wojtyła family memorial and closing reflection. - Buffer 10–20 min for delays, breaks and questions.
- Remind participants to be quiet and respectful toward visitors at graves. - Do not walk on graves or sit on tombstones; keep paths clear. - For elderly or disabled participants provide shorter distances and the option to stay near the entrance; while the cemetery is walkable, some alleys are uneven.
If the group has more time or wants a longer program, extend the route to the nearby military cemetery on Prandoty Street or combine the walk with a visit to a nearby museum or the Jan Matejko House. For school groups prepare an activity sheet with quizzes, field tasks or short literary readings at poets’ graves.
Remember that some museums and historic interiors in Kraków accept groups in limited numbers (often around 30 people per guide or per reservation). If your tour includes indoor elements, plan according to those limits and consider splitting the group.
- Confirm participant numbers and contact details for group leaders. - Obtain permission from cemetery administration for official acts if needed (wreaths, mass, speeches). - Equipment: amplification system, first aid kit, plan for bad weather (umbrellas, shorter route variants). - Information for participants: dress code guidance, reminder about respect and silence, recommended public transport options.
The proposed route links Rakowicki Cemetery’s most recognisable places with realistic logistical constraints for large groups. By splitting into subgroups, using simple amplification and contacting the administration in advance, you can run a valuable, respectful and safe walk that fits into 60–90 minutes and leaves participants informed and reflective.
Meeting point tips: aim to meet 10–15 minutes before your scheduled start to allow for late arrivals and brief orientation. Nearby facilities: a few cafés and bakeries are within walking distance of Rakowicka Street where participants can warm up or get a drink after the walk. Transport: suggest that participants use tram lines serving the Rakowice loop and allow extra travel time on busy dates.
Nearby places to visit after the cemetery: the Jan Matejko House (Museum), the Old Town and the Planty park ring are easy to reach and work well as a continuation of the historical theme.
Weather and clothing: late October weather can be chilly and changeable — advise layered clothing, comfortable waterproof footwear and a compact umbrella.
Q: Do I need permission for a group of 40? - A: For a simple guided walk you usually do not need special permission, but for official ceremonies or large gatherings it’s best to notify cemetery administration in advance.
Q: Is there a restroom on site? - A: There are basic sanitary points near the main entrance; plan short breaks accordingly.
Q: Can we bring signs or banners? - A: Keep any signs respectful and compact so they do not block paths or disturb other visitors; for larger displays check with administration first.
This route was prepared to help organizers run a thoughtful and well-paced visit for groups of 30–60. With simple preparation and respect for the place and its visitors, Rakowicki Cemetery offers a moving and educational experience for everyone.
