Lodz is the second largest city in Poland with a population of approximately 776,000 people. Lodz serves as the capital of the Lodz Voivodship. The city has a strong history dating back to World War II, where only 900 Jews survived the concentration camps and several non-Jewish inhabitants were imprisoned and exterminated within the various camps located throughout the city. By the end of World War II, Lodz had lost approximately 420,000 of its pre-war residents; 300,000 Jews and approximately 120,000 Poles. Tourists love Piotrkowska Street, which is the longest commercial street in the world. It has been renovated and has buildings dating back to the 19th century, in the architectural style of the Secession. Late spring to early autumn is a wonderful time to visit, as you will meet friendly people while strolling from one pub (or shop) to the other. Lodz has several parks, including the largest city park in Europe; it also has a zoo and the botanical gardens. One of the best museums in Poland is found in Lodz; despite the lack of space for all the artwork, it still offers a great deal to the visitors. Lodz Film School has served an important education center for the greatest Polish film-makers and an important cultural center for the country of Poland. At the end of World War II, Lodz was the only Polish town besides Krakow that war had not destroyed. The creation of the film school gave the town a role of higher importance from a cultural point of view, which did not exist prior to the war. The school is also associated with the annual Camerimage Film Festival, founded in 1993.