Centennial Hall

What makes it special

Inside, the scale comes first. The dome spans 65 metres, and its concrete ribs run up from a lower ring and lean together against an upper ring at the crown.

Between the ribs, the roof steps back in terraces, and each step carries a row of windows. That stepped roof is what lets daylight into the arena from all round the dome.

The exhibition in the Visitor Centre is made up of touch screens and maps, with film and sound recordings about the hall. Go through it first, so the ribs, the rings and the stepped rows of windows make sense when you see the dome itself from outside or within.

Visiting

Start at the Visitor Centre, the tourist gateway to the hall. Ask for a ticket that adds a visit inside the hall.

Back outside, walk over to the Multimedia Fountain beside the hall and catch a show, which is free to watch. Shows start on the hour, and the last evening show begins at 9.40 pm.

Finish with a walk in the Japanese Garden next door, which is ticketed separately from the Visitor Centre. It opens daily from April to October, 9 am to 7 pm, and closes for the winter.

Tips

Crowds peak at weekends and during the fountain shows, so plan your evening show for a weekday if you can. From April to October, if your time in Wrocław is short, give the Japanese Garden priority over a long stay in the exhibition.

Only groups of more than ten need to reserve tickets in advance, so a smaller party can buy on arrival.