"Little Paris" in northern Poland. Few people appreciate this riverside city.

Słupsk is a city located in northern Poland, in the Pomeranian Voivodeship. It lies on the Koszalin Coast, on the Słupia River. It's not as appreciated by Poles as other towns in the region. Despite this, it's associated with a rich history, charming monuments, and proximity to the Baltic Sea and Słowiński National Park. Why is this place called "Little Paris"? We explain.

Słupsk as "Little Paris"

The well-known French city of Paris is an iconic city. At first glance, no Polish city can compare to its atmosphere and multiculturalism. Although the Eiffel Tower can also be found in Poland, for example, in Rybnik , it is only a small imitation of the real monument, located at... a roundabout. It turns out that Słupsk, although it never even had such an attraction, was referred to as "Little Paris" or "Paris of the North."

The aforementioned name alludes to pre-war Słupsk, all because the city was considered a jewel of modernist architecture. Some sources indicate that the city's entertainment character also played a role. Another interesting fact is that the Słupsk Planty Park, created on the site of former moats and defensive fortifications, was modeled on Parisian designs. Associations with the French capital were therefore numerous. The narrow streets, atmospheric tenement houses, and artistic atmosphere also played a significant role.

Słupsk suffered a tragic fate, being completely destroyed by war in 1945. Today, it looks completely different than it once did, but suddenly it has much to offer and has been beautifully rebuilt. Interestingly, until 2001, the city boasted a 10-armed lantern, the so-called "shashlik," which, in reference to its Parisian nickname, some compared to the Eiffel Tower.

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Słupsk is good for a city break

Słupsk was recently referred to as "Little Paris" on Polish Radio Czwórka's "City Break Polska" podcast, among others. The place's fascinating history and tourist attractions were highlighted. "It guarantees peace and quiet and fewer tourists," one could hear. This is undoubtedly something many of us are looking for these days, especially in an era of ubiquitous crowds and high prices.

The city is described as child-friendly, safe, and interesting. Its most important monuments include the Pomeranian Dukes' Castle, the Town Hall , the Gothic St. Mary's Church, the Mill Gate, and the Castle Mill. The city is close to the seaside, including Ustka.