The beginnings of Warsaw – the capital of Poland – go as far back as the 12th and 13th century. However, the city was forced to entirely rebuild after its almost-total destruction during World War II. The symbol of the capital’s rebirth was a post-war reconstruction of the Old Town, which in 1980 was put on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, as an example of a nearly complete restoration of the original settlement using original town plans and architecture. Warsaw has been called “the Paris of the North”, and a “Phoenix”, having risen from the ashes after total devastation. Poland’s capital is a really exciting and inspiring city with very welcoming and friendly citizens.