Poznan

One of the most modern venues of this type in the world, for over twenty years the Lake Malta regatta track has regularly hosted the largest international events in water sports. It was the stage of the World Rowing Championship in 2009, and the World Canoeing Championship in 2010. Oarsmen and canoeists also compete here in World Cup competitions.

Thanks to its excellent location, virtually in Poznan city centre, all events held at Lake Malta attract thousands of spectators. Coming here, the inhabitants of Poznan are offered not only great sports and cultural events but also a place for everyday practice in various sports disciplines from running to cycling, roller skating, and even skiing. Every day, one can meet people who value a healthy lifestyle. For this reason the biggest street run in Poland, the Poznan Marathon, starts every year at the Malta.

The proximity of the oldest part of Poznan means that the organisers of cultural events select the Lake Malta areas for their events. Concerts and theatrical performances are staged at the stand near the finishing line. In the vicinity, the enthusiasts of winter sports can indulge themselves in their passion at the all-year-round Malta Ski slope. On the other side of the lake the huge Malta Springs sports complex with Olympic swimming pool and many other attractions will be completed even before the 2012 European Football Championship.

The history of Lake Malta is also very interesting and spans the ages. The name comes from the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, as the lake occupies the lands that used to belong to the Church of St. John of Jerusalem, behind walls which also housed the commanders of this order. The artificial lake was formed in 1952 as a result of the damming of the Cybina River. The lake and its surroundings took their present shape in the 1980s when this beautiful site of the Wielkopolska capital underwent thorough modernisation. Today, Lake Malta is the showcase of Poznan, and is recognised on the sporting and cultural map of the world.