Sandomierz, Poland
What It Is Like to Retire in Sandomierz
Sandomierz is a walled city that dates back to the early Middle Ages. Astride the Vistula River, it was once an important trading center and one of Poland's largest cities. There is a large gothic cathedral with a Baroque interior, along with a large bishop's residence. A huge central plaza in Old Town has shops and restaurants, along with City Hall. The city long had a flourishing Jewish population (over 2,500), which was totally exterminated during WWII by the Nazis. A synagogue remains, but there are no Jews in the town. Today's population is 25,000. Besides the historic Old Town, an important tourist center, there are other parts of the city outside the gates where most people live. Find out more about what it is like to retire in Poland.
Where to Retire in Sandomierz and Home Prices
There do not appear to be many residences within the Old City, but those that are there are very nice. Outside the old walls of the city is a bustling town with apartments and homes, and further into the country there are pastoral farms and homes. It is difficult to get accurate real estate prices here but one estimate for the country in general says that the rental price of an apartment in Poland ranges from 3500PLN to 6700PLN (1 bedroom to 3 bedroom in city center). That translates to about $900-$1800 US per month). All prices are much lower in Poland than the rest of Europe.
What Is Special about Sandomierz
This walled city with a history that goes back at least to the 11th century is quite beautiful and charming, with many significant historical buildings. The cost of living is low. Popular with tourists, there are many good restaurants and things to see. The extensive cellars dug out in medieval times were only rediscovered in the late 20th century when streets and people began to fall into them. There are many beautiful churches along with a Dominican Monastery and home for retired priests.
What Is Not Special about Sandomierz
The extermination of its Jewish residents is a sad chapter in its history. The government of Poland is now controlled by a Populist President who some believe threatens the country's democracy.
Who Will Like Retirement in Sandomierz
Europeans looking for a good standard of living at greatly reduced cost might like retiring in Sandomierz. Likewise Polish-Americans who want to go back and retire in Poland will find this an attractive option.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Tourism and agriculture. This town is the center of the regional economy with many schools.
Climate and Physical Environment
Sandomierz is located in Southeastern Poland on the Vistula River. The average July temperature is about 65 F. and 25 F. in January. Rainfall is heaviest in July. The terrain is mostly flat with some rolling hills.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
The old castle across from the cathedrale has an interesting museum, and there are others in town as well. The art in the cathedral is worth exploring. As a tourist center there are many good restaurants both in Old Town and outside the gates.
Crime
The crime rate in Poland is quite low.
Medical facilities
For serious medical issues you would probably want to go to Krakow, where there is a medical university. Medical care in the country is good and relatively inexpensive.
Transportation
The city has an extensive bus system which is used by a large percentage of the population.
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