Markiewicza Viaduct is an extension of Karowa Street and as such connects Krakowskie Przedmieście – the main touristic street in the city – and Powiśle – the neighbourhood along the river. Downtown Warsaw is located substantially higher than districts located in the river valley, and travelling between the two requires climbing some stairs or a steep road.
This viaduct is my favourite route for getting to the central part of the city for several reasons. Firstly, it runs in a loop, thus the incline is relatively low – especially useful when biking. Secondly, regular car traffic is not allowed here, making biking even more pleasant and safe. And finally, because of its location, the viaduct has been granted a beautiful architectural design by Stefan Szyller who was also responsible for many other landmarks in the historical style built in the city at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries.
In fact, its location between the green areas of Powiśle and palaces along the Royal Road makes it so scenic that it’s become quite a popular spot for filming movie scenes and photo shoots with an “old Warsaw” setting. Some more spectacular events can also be observed here, most notable of which is the annual Barbórka car race whose most prestigious section runs nowhere else than here.
