Piotrkow Trybunalski is a small Polish town, about an hour train ride from Lodz. There’s nothing very particular about it, it’s off the beaten track, and not what you’d consider a tourist destination, yet I was there to explore some of the Jewish history in the city and understand a bit about their lives when they were still around and what had happened to them during the times before and during the second world war. We spent about 3-4 hours walking around, and although there wasn’t much left to see, I have heard many stories of the local population and saw whatever little was left, a synagogue (now a library) and the cemetery. Aside from the Jewish story, there are a few colorful buildings and churches, and an old town square with cafes and restaurants. When we stopped by the tourist information center to ask what’s the biggest attraction we were told there is a large brewery and some springs in the area, that bring in visitors from the area.
Old town square…
A local “castle”…
The former great synagogue, now a library…
Christian cemetery, well maintained and full of flowers…
The Jewish cemetery, a bit run down, and you’d need to know the old lady that lives nearby in order to get in…
Location:
Definitely not your typical tourist destination, but those with roots in the area or interested in the Jewish history might find a thing or two to explore. It would be best, however, to take a tour with a knowledgeable guide, as I have.