The Wilanów Palace (also known as the Versailles of Poland) was built in the 1600s for King John III Sobieski

This palace sits a few hundred meters back from the main roads, and only maybe a couple hundred more from the roads to our apartment.  And after living virtually next door, we finally decided to pay a visit to the palace.

The Palace is an enormous structure, surrounded by beautiful gardens and parks.  It survived the destruction of World War II and the Warsaw Uprising, due to it’s location farther to the outskirts of the city.  Though it was heavily damaged and is still being restored, much of the original structure and artwork remains intact.  The palace now serves as a museum of national art and pride.

Unfortunately, photographs were not allowed inside the palace.  But even if we could have, we would not have had room on our camera for everything.  Nearly every wall and ceiling is painted with elaborate frescoes and carvings.  There were displays of weapons and armor, collected by John III, as well as magnificient portraits of all of the previous owners and their families.

After King John III and his sons, the palace ownership passed to powerful Polish families.  Many of the 19th century palace owners are buried in the Potacki Mausoleum in the park outside of the palace, next to St. Anne’s Church.

We spent a few hours roaming the park and palace exterior, and about an equal amount of time inside, looking at the artifacts of Polish history that are kept there. 

By the end of the day, our brains were full and our feet were tired, so we plan on returning another time.

An added bonus on this trip was the art exhibition that was on display in the palace’s old kitchen. 

The palace often plays hosts to concerts and art/historical exhibits, and serves as a Museum.  We hope to return for more events in the future!

More Information:

• Wikipedia
• Museum Palace at Wilanow