Wars and Sawa — how Warsaw got its name

The legend of Wars and Sawa explains the origin of the name Warsaw. According to the tale, while hunting in the forest near today's Old Town, Prince Siemowit (in another version, King Casimir the Restorer) lost his way. Tired and hungry, he reached a humble hut by the Vistula.

The fisherman Wars lived there with his wife Sawa. They welcomed the guest with great hospitality, sharing their bread and their catch. In return, the prince granted them the land by the river and told them to found a settlement, which was named after them — Warszawa (Warsaw).

Although historians explain the name differently, the story of Wars and Sawa remains one of the best-known Old Town legends, passed down from generation to generation.