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Warszawa (vah-shah-vah) to give it its proper name is the country's largest city & the country's political and economical hub. Although the history of Warsaw goes back to the 12^th and 13^th century it's the city's modern day history that most people are familiar with.

More than 85% of the city was destroyed during World War II, and over half of the people who had lived there prior to the war were either killed or displaced. The large Jewish population (around 30% of the city's population) was murdered during the atrocities. In addition Warsaw, and Poland in general, became isolated from the west because of Communist and Soviet influences.

After World War Two, substantial renovation began to revive some of Warsaw's architectural character. Unfortunately only the New Town and Old Town were reconstructed to their original glories; large swathes of the city were built to utilitarian Communist ideals.

Today, Warsaw is experiencing a new economic and infrastructure development boom in stark contrast to the living conditions and economic situation while the city was under the influence of the Soviet government. Many fled during the 70s and 80s in search of a better life; now the trend is reversed, and the city is flourishing.

STATIONARY FANS' EMBASSY

 As part of the UEFA-backed "RESPECT Fan Culture" programme, Football Supporters Europe are providing a fans' embassy in Gdansk to welcome fans of all nations who come to the city. Like the FSF's own fans' embassy service, this will operate on a "by fans, for fans" basis, and will be staffed by volunteers drawn from the local fan scene. There will also be an English-language service provision.

The fans' embassy will provide all the usual sort of information that a tourist office might offer, such as available accommodation, local transport timetables and routes, sightseeing opportunities, etc.

Crucially, though, it will also provide fan-specific information and advice such as ticket availability, viewing facilities, stadium regulations and matchday arrangements.

For more information, visit the FSE's 2012 Fanguide website.