Amazing

Wilanów

is first and foremost a royal palace and beautiful gardens – it is one of Warsaw’s most beautiful attractions.  King Jan III Sobieski in the 17th century built a representative magnate’s residence in a place close enough to the capital to keep him abreast of state affairs, and at the same time away from the city, so that the ruler, together with his beloved wife Marysieńka, could relax surrounded by greenery and enjoy court entertainment, including hunting.

The residence was gradually rebuilt, according to the growing rank and power of the Polish king, until it developed to be known as the Polish Versailles. And indeed, the palace impresses with its architecture, which combines elements of a French palace in the style of Louis XIV, an Italian palace villa and a traditional Polish manor house.

Today, the Wilanów Palace is a museum that houses, among other things, exquisitely preserved decor from the time of Jan III Sobieski, a precious collection of memorabilia of all the owners of Wilanów, and a park full of charm – a wonderful place for walks. Interestingly, the king himself is said to have tended the plants in the gardens, planted trees and spent long hours here. Nowadays, the Italian gardens between the palace and Wilanow Lake are most reminiscent of the era of John III Sobieski.

On the other hand, the royal wife Maria Kazimiera (known to history as Marysieńka) was a great patron of art and culture, financing the work of painters, theater groups, writers and musicians. When she stayed in Wilanów, the palace was filled with music and theatrical performances in which the children of the royal couple often performed! Part of the presented collection of sculpture and painting is the result of the queen’s patronage.

It is worth mentioning that the Wilanów Palace is the oldest art museum in Poland, founded in 1805. After 1945 it passed into state ownership and is one of the gems on the map of museums and art galleries in Poland.

While visiting the Palace, you must also take a look at the former coach house and riding school – it houses the Poster Museum, which has one of the largest collections of art posters in the world.

The Wilanów Palace and its gardens are a must-see on any trip to Warsaw, both for their aesthetic value and for the history of the place.

                                                                                                                                                                  photo: pexels-8833342

photos: Alina Jabłońska Domurat, unless stated otherwise