Plac Nowy, Kraków

Plac Nowy is a market square in Kazimierz, built around the Okrąglak market pavilion. The pavilion dates to 1900 and takes its local nickname, “the saucepan”, from its rounded form. Its structure combines an inner hall with a surrounding ring of stalls, separated by an open passage leading to the shops.

In 1927, the Jewish community leased the building, which then served as a ritual poultry slaughterhouse. Today, the stalls offer groceries, meat and zapiekanki, the long toasted sandwiches associated with Polish street food since the 1970s. On weekdays, the square becomes a lively market ranging from vegetables to antiques, with cafés and pubs around it. Look at the pavilion’s roof: concerts are held there during events including the Jewish Culture Festival.