Wrocław is renowned under many historical names: Wratislavia, Vratislavia, Budorgis, Wrotizla, Vratislav, Vroclav, Pressela, Presslaw, Brassel, Breslauia, Wretslaw, Bressla, Bresslau, Breslau…The city was given as many as about fifty various names.

The number of names given to our city is a symbolic evidence of its complex past. Wrocław witnessed the history of many European nations, cultures, languages and religions as well as many countries ruling this part of Europe. It is the history of the microcosm in which the past of Europe was reflected as if in the Odra river flowing across Wrocław.

Apart from these many names mentioned above, Wrocław was also referred to as "Flos Europae" - "the Flower of Europe". This flower bloomed thanks to Lower Silesia - the region where it grew and developed, in which it has been fulfilling its role as the cultural metropolis of many nations.

Our city considerably contributed to creation of many great works of European art and culture. The history of Wrocław, which abounds in great achievements that became a durable element of the European culture, is the history of the most sublime, solemn and beautiful aspects of human deeds, works of spiritual and material culture and everyday life of its past and present inhabitants. Thanks to this sublimity and beauty, our city is perceived as a unique and friendly place for its inhabitants as well as tourists.