Think, Dream And Discover With Digital Storytelling

2023-1-PL01-KA210-SCH-000159494

In a tall, ancient oak tree that stood proudly near the banks of the Vistula River, just outside the walls of Toruń, lived a wise little owl named Threads. Her feathers were soft and silvery, her eyes deep and golden, and her heart full of curiosity. Every night, when the stars began to twinkle in the sky, Threads would stretch her wings and glide silently over the rooftops of the city, listening carefully to the whispers of the wind and the murmurs of the people below.

She especially loved stories—old tales, local myths, and forgotten legends. Toruń, with its cobbled streets and Gothic buildings, was full of them. It was a city built on history and mystery, and Threads wanted to remember every single tale.

One warm spring evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the city was bathed in golden light, Threads perched on a rooftop near the Town Hall. Below her, on a quiet bench, sat a grandmother with two young children. The children had their heads tilted up eagerly, their eyes full of expectation.

“Grandma,” said the little girl, her voice as soft as a breeze, “can you tell us a story about Toruń?”

The old woman smiled warmly, her eyes twinkling like stars. “Of course,” she said. “Tonight, I’ll tell you not one, but two stories—one about the founding of this beautiful city, and another about a very brave and clever raftsman.”

Threads fluffed her feathers and leaned in. This was exactly the kind of

 night she loved most.

The grandmother began, her voice strong and clear. “Many, many years ago, long before the streets were paved and the churches were built, a group of Teutonic Knights travelled along the Vistula River, searching for the perfect place to build a new town. They needed somewhere safe, near water for trade, and easy to defend. When they came to this spot by the river, they knew it was the one. It was peaceful, rich with nature, and had a perfect location.”

The children listened with wide eyes as she continued.

“So, in the year 1233, the knights founded the city of Toruń. They built strong walls, tall towers, and beautiful buildings. The city grew quickly and became an important centre of trade and culture. People from many lands came here, bringing stories, food, and music.”

The boy grinned. “That’s cool! And what about the raftsman?”

“Ah,” said the grandmother, “that is a special story. One of my favourites.”

“Ah,” said the grandmother, “that is a special story. One of my favourites.”

She looked around as if making sure no one else was listening, then leaned closer.

“Many, many years ago, something strange happened in Toruń. Frogs appeared—thousands of them. No one knew where they had come from, but soon they were everywhere. They hopped through the streets, croaked loudly in the night, and even sneaked into homes and shops. Some were even found in the Town Hall, jumping across the mayor’s desk!”