The Krakow barbican, known in Polish as "barbakan krakowski", is a defensive structure from the late Middle Ages. It represents a historic gate leading to the historic center of the city, being one of the few remaining vestiges of the complex network of fortifications and defensive structures that once surrounded the city. Currently, this construction stands as a point of tourist interest where various exhibitions are held.

Its construction dates back to approximately 1498, adopting a Gothic style characteristic of the time. Outstanding for being one of the three fortified posts of its type that still survive in Europe, the Krakow barbican is presented as the best preserved of all. It is a cylindrical brick structure, surrounded by a moat and with an inner courtyard of 24.4 meters in diameter, also housing seven turrets. Its walls, robust with a width of 3 meters, are equipped with 130 loopholes for defense. Originally, it was connected to the walls by a covered passageway leading to the Gate of San Florian, acting as a checkpoint for all those entering the city.

On the eastern wall, a commemorative plaque can be found in honor of Marcin Oracewicz, a Krakow citizen who bravely defended the city against the Russians and shot Colonel Panin during the Confederation of Bar. Considered a masterpiece of medieval military engineering, this barbican was added to the fortifications of the Royal Route at the end of the 15th century.