Did you know the Mongols invaded Poland? In 1241 Wroclaw was abandoned, becoming a casualty of the First Mongol Invasion of Poland. Rampaging Mongols not-withstanding, Wroclaw’s absorbed Bohemian, Austrian, and Prussian influences over its long history, making for a unique architectural and cultural make-up, culminating in Rynek, its magnificent market square. Spanning the Odra River, over 12 islands, with 130 bridges and riverside parks, Wroclaw begs to be explored. For lovers of Gothic architecture, the beautifully preserved Cathedral Island can’t be missed.