Poland mourns president after plane crash

Poland is in a week-long official mourning period after the plane carrying President Lech Kaczynski, his wife and 94 other people crashed near Smolensk, Russia, on Saturday on their way to commemorations of a World War II massacre.

The deaths also included nearly all of the ranking military leadership. The group was to participate in a commemoration of the Katyn massacre of 1940 in which 22,000 Polish soldiers and other prisoners were executed, then their deaths covered up for decades.

A week of mourning has been declared until 16 April. During that time, no public events such as concerts, festivals or markets will be held.

Visitors may find unexpected closures or opening hours altered. Poznan Life recommends all visitors re-confirm their plans before going out for the day, or be flexible and patient during this time.