The Polish Challenge

Discover the fascinating story of a Polish couple of PhD students and their adventurous journey through the vast number of churches in Venice. Learn about their incredible challenge and their determination to gain a deeper understanding of Venice’s unique cultural heritage.

Long ago, there was a Polish couple who embarked on an adventurous trip to explore Venice in a unique and challenging way. They arrived in a van and stayed for a full ten days with a purpose in mind: to visit as many churches as possible for their PhD research in religious art. And we’re not just talking about a few churches here and there; they aimed to visit all 137 of them in town!

Interestingly, the neighbour Timmy lived in the same building where they were staying at the time, but he didn’t catch a glimpse of them during their entire stay. Timmy could only hear them leaving early in the morning and returning late in the afternoon or early evening.

However, on the morning of their checkout, Timmy finally met them face to face. He was surprised to see the exhausted and pale-looking couple with dark eye pits. Timmy couldn’t help but ask, “Hello! Is everything alright? Did you accomplish your plan?” The couple replied in a low tone, “Hello. Yes, all good. Unfortunately, we couldn’t make it.”

This experience became known as “The Polish Challenge” – a masochistic practice for Venice Guests. Although we don’t advise anyone to undertake such a feat, Timmy was inspired by the couple’s determination and decided to create a shortlist of his favorite churches in town. Another contribution to (what used to be) a small website.

Get inspired by their unwavering commitment and embark on your own adventure to uncover the treasures of this enchanting city. Check out his recommendations here and discover the hidden gems of Venice!