Malbork-one day is not enough

Malbork, best known for the largest Gothic castle in the world, now has a new face. In 2009 the heart of the town was renewed. With projects such as the Malbork Welcome Centre, a new public space has come into being on the main Kościuszki Street in the centre of Malbork. The works began on a pedestrian precinct, the "town furniture" project, and the Town Information System.

The pedestrian precinct has become not only a meeting place for the town's residents, but also a venue for exhibitions, parades, a street theatre and fairs. Also, the access routes to Malbork Castle have been rebuilt.The historic rail station will delight residents and tourists with a new, well-kept appearance from the 2010 summer season.

On the precinct in the centre there is a square with water features laid out in the shape of a knight's sword and shield, alluding to the history of Malbork, and also serving as a meeting place for the town's residents. The fountain shows with light and music take place every day during the tourist season, and at weekends visitors can also listen to brief historical presentations accompanied by the fountain shows. Another new product is the modern covered ice-rink close to the centre. Alongside the ice-rink there is a climbing wall and a complex of sports pitches. The town's bathing place now offers a new beach volleyball area. A private investor has built one of the largest ropes courses in Poland. Another project is also under way to develop the embankments along the Nogat River, including a yacht marina, and to develop the North Park, where a recreation centre and aquapark will be built.

In cooperation with the Castle Museum, a project to develop the von Plauen embankments near the castle has been initiated. A modern open-air show venue has obtained funding from the ERDF. This year the place will become a centre for cultural events, not only those of a historical nature. The creation of suitable technical infrastructure and commercial facilities will make it possible to put on major public events such as the famous Siege of Malbork re-enactment, as well as the new and equally spectacular event called Magic Malbork.

Malbork Welcome Centre announced a competition in 2009 for the promotional melody iden- tified with the town. A melody has been especially composed for the dancing fountain, and also serves as the background music for some new promotional spots for Malbork.