Gesta principum Polonorum
The Gesta principum Polonorum is the oldest known medieval chronicle documenting the history of Poland from the legendary times until 1113. Written in Latin by an anonymous author, it was most likely completed between 1112 and 1118, and its extant text is present in three manuscripts with two distinct traditions. Its anonymous author is traditionally called Gallus, a foreigner and outcast from an unknown country, who travelled to the Kingdom of Poland via Hungary. Gesta was commissioned by Poland's then ruler, Boleslaus III Wrymouth; Gallus expected a prize for his work, which he most likely received and of which he lived the rest of his life.
Gesta principum Polonorum
Beginning of Gesta principum Polonorum (Codex Zamoyscianus held at the National Library of Poland).
The history of Poland spans over a thousand years, from medieval tribes, Christianization and monarchy; through Poland's Golden Age, expansionism and becoming one of the largest European powers; to its collapse and partitions, two world wars, communism, and the restoration of democracy.
Reconstructed Biskupin fortified settlement of the Lusatian culture, 8th century BC
Władysław I the Elbow-high
A representation of the Battle of Grunwald, a great military contest of the Late Middle Ages
King Casimir IV Jagiellon was the central figure of the Jagiellonian period