“Community cannot be broken by fear.” An important appeal by Krakow merchants

After the attack in Krakow, pain and many questions remained

Saturday's attack in the very center of Krakow caused that places associated with walking, entertainment and carefree spending of free time were marked with death and suffering. Bullet marks are still visible on shop windows and building facades.

Krakow residents and tourists visit the Main Square to show their unity, memory of the victims and injured, and admiration for all those who showed heroism in critical moments.

What will the upcoming Christmas markets look like? Will the Main Square be bustling with life again and will people who visit it feel safe? Among others These questions, natural a few days after the unprecedented tragedy, are addressed in the statement published today by the Krakow Merchant Congregation.

"We are here. We are not intimidated. We will not let fear rob our city of its life, openness and hospitality," assures the president of the organization, Wiesław Jopek. As he emphasizes, merchants have been part of urban history and everyday life for generations.

Despite the pain and anxiety, we remain ready to work, serve the residents and welcome everyone who visits Krakow. Don't leave us. Stay with us. Visit our stores, premises and Krakow streets. Your presence is not only support for us, but also a testimony that the community we create cannot be broken by fear - we read in the statement.

“Kraków still teeming with life”

Jopek also mentions the sacrifice and courage of the heroes of Saturday's events. They included young policemen who stopped the attacker, but also doctors, medical services and passers-by who helped the injured.

Their courage and dedication oblige us all to not give in to fear, remain united and take care of the future of our city together. The most beautiful expression of gratitude for their service will be Krakow, which is still teeming with life, and people feel safe and remain in solidarity - appeals the head of the Krakow Merchants' Congregation.

"Let's show that Krakow does not give in to fear"

The head of the merchant organization encourages Krakow residents to take part in the upcoming Krakow Christmas markets with their families and loved ones.

"Let our common presence be an expression of strength, unity and steadfastness. Let's show that Krakow does not give in to fear, that we can be together even in the most difficult moments. Let this year's holidays become a symbol of hope, solidarity and the victory of good over evil," he appeals. As he emphasizes, merchants want to continue to participate in building Krakow, which "will remain an open, lively and safe city."