Its favourable location at the crossroads of the trade routes from the north to the south and from the west to the east of the continent fueled the development of Kalisz and its openness to newcomers representing various peoples, nations, religions and cultures. An early medieval stronghold in Zawodzie (9th/10th-13th century) was one of the greatest Piast town centres. After 1233 a Silesian Duke Henry the Bearded relocated the settlement into a new place north of Zawodzie. Around 1257 prince Bolesław the Pious founded Kalisz in accordance with the Środa law. The city was characterised by a spindle-like layout of two market streets, with cross streets and a rectangular square situated in the centre. This medieval town design has remained until present times.

World War I took a tragic toll on Kalisz. In August 1914 Prussian army obliterated and burnt the city down. 95% of old-town buildings laid in ruins. The city’s restoration between 1920s and 1930s was the first such venture nationwide. The old centre was reconstructed according to restoration guidelines, preserving its ancient layout, although historic buildings were not reconstructed. During Word War II Kalisz was incorporated into an area called “Warthegau” by the Germans. The Nazi occupation was a period of oppression and discrimination for Kalisz citizens. Post-war years were marked by the development of industry, city infrastructure and sociocultural growth.

Modern Kalisz covers an area of 70 km2, with app. 90 thousand residents. Between 1975 and 1998 it was a capital city of Kalisz Voivodeship, while in the new administrative division the city is located in Wielkopolskie Voivodeship. Kalisz enchants with its magic beauty. Here, the past and the present are intertwined and form a unique atmosphere.