Płock - Poland

Płock: A City Steeped in History and Culture Located in central Poland, on the banks of the Vistula river, Płock is a city with a rich history dating back to the 11th century. With a population of over 116,000 inhabitants as of 2021, Płock is a significant urban center in the Masovian Voivodeship. Its full ceremonial name, Stołeczne Książęce Miasto Płock (the Princely or Ducal Capital City of Płock), reflects its storied past and importance as a former capital of Poland. As the capital of the powiat (county) in western Masovia, Płock is a hub for culture, academia, science, administration, and transportation in the region. The city's historic center is dominated by the Wzgórze Tumskie ("Cathedral Hill"), featuring the impressive Płock Castle and Catholic Cathedral, which houses the sarcophagi of several Polish monarchs. This iconic landmark is recognized as a Historic Monument of Poland. Płock's history is deeply intertwined with the development of Poland itself. Between 1079 and 1138, it served as the country's capital, and later it remained a royal city. The city's significance extended into the Middle Ages, when it was the main urban center in Mazovia before Warsaw rose to prominence. Today, Płock is home to several important institutions, including the Roman Catholic Diocese of Płock, one of Poland's oldest dioceses founded in the 11th century. The city also hosts the worldwide headquarters of the Mariavite Church and the esteemed Marshal Stanisław Małachowski High School, which boasts a proud history as the oldest school in Poland and one of the oldest in Central Europe. From an economic perspective, Płock is home to the country's largest oil refinery, contributing significantly to the region's industrial output. While the city scores relatively well in terms of commute (A) and healthcare (B), it faces challenges related to amenities (B-) and noise pollution (B-). Childcare and education options are also available but score a modest B. Overall, Płock offers an intriguing blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to experience the authentic charm of Poland's lesser-known cities.

Płock

Płock
Country: Poland
Population: 112483
Elevation: 60.0 metre
Area: 88.0 square kilometre
Web: http://www.ump.pl
City mayor: Andrzej Nowakowski
Postal code: 09-400 to 09-411, 09-419 to 09-421
Area code: +48 24