After yesterday’s 70-something Km bike ride, my legs didn’t have a whole lot left to give today.

But we were determined to join the group while Pan Adam gave another of his greatly informative tours.  This time we started at the Palace of Culture.  We actually didn’t get too far, though, and spent the two-hours in and around the palace.  Afterwards we went to a great place for some pierogi!  That was VERY tasty, and Jess was able to get an equally tasty chicken.

I wasn’t sure my legs were going to cooperate, but we tested them with a grocery run in the morning, and they didn’t complain too much.  Even now, after all the walking today, they don’t feel too bad.  I’m guessing that tomorrow I’ll be choking on my words. 

Tomorrow morning I’m going to run over to the nearest well that I know of to fill up some water bottles.  Drinking the water here isn’t recommended, unless it’s from the wells.  Even then, most people suggest we boil it first.  The main concern about the tap water isn’t bacteria so much as it is the heavy metals and other contaminants from the pipes.  We’ll probably pick up a Brita, or other such filtering mechanism device thing.

Anways, all that aside, here are some pictures from the palace for you.  The "Palace" was built by the Russians in the communist era.  It was a "gift" from Stalin.  Adam told us most people have mixed emotions about it.  Similar to the Orthodox church that was built from the previous Russian occupation, it’s primary purpose was to remind people of who was in charge.  That church was torn down when Poland became a separate country after World War I.  This palace still stands, but is also used by the people as a cultural center.  

In addition to the palace, we visited a photograph exhibition from 70s era Poland.  At the time, Poland was still communist and was enjoying a period of stability, if not prosperity.  Life was simple and people needed little but happiness.  But that disappeared in the 80s (along with most of the goods from market shelves).  We learned a lot about the people and how it reflects in their attitudes.

Okay, enough talk.  They say pictures are worth more words, anyways, so take a look-see.  As usual, these will be in my photo gallery, and some will eventually find their way to Facebook and personal e-mails…  but I have a life, too, so I can’t spend all day doing this stuff!!   So enjoy these:

Old Town, as seen (zoomed in) from the 30th floor