Located in the southern part of Warsaw, Wilanow Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Built in the 17th century, the palace is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, with its majestic walls, ornate decorations, and lush gardens. This majestic building is a must-see for anyone visiting Warsaw, and here are 10 things to do in Wilanow Palace.
1. Explore the Palace Grounds
The best way to start your visit to Wilanow Palace is to explore the palace grounds. You can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, which are filled with sculptures, fountains, and other decorations. There are also several monuments and statues located on the grounds, including the Monument to King Jan III Sobieski, the Monument to the Polish Army, and the Monument to the Victims of the Warsaw Uprising.
2. Visit the Wilanow Museum
The Wilanow Museum is located in the palace and is one of the best places to learn about the history of the palace and its inhabitants. The museum features exhibits on the history of the palace, its architecture, and the lives of the people who lived there. You can also see some of the original furnishings and decorations that were used in the palace.
3. Take a Guided Tour
If you want to learn more about Wilanow Palace, a guided tour is a great way to do it. The tours are offered in several languages and are a great way to get an in-depth look at the palace and its history. The tour guides are knowledgeable and can answer any questions you may have about the palace.
4. Visit the Picture Gallery
The Picture Gallery is one of the most popular attractions in Wilanow Palace. The gallery features a collection of over 200 paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries, including works by such artists as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto. The gallery also has a selection of sculptures, porcelain, and furniture from the same period.
5. Visit the Palace Library
The Palace Library is another must-see when visiting Wilanow Palace. The library contains over 35,000 books, manuscripts, and prints from the 16th to 19th centuries. The library also has a selection of rare books, including a first edition of Dante's Divine Comedy and a first edition of the Bible.
6. Visit the Palace Chapel
The Palace Chapel is one of the most beautiful places in Wilanow Palace. The chapel was built in the 17th century and features an ornate Baroque interior, complete with frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass windows. The chapel also houses a collection of religious artifacts, including a 16th-century crucifix and a 16th-century chalice.
7. See the Palace Gardens
The Wilanow Palace gardens are one of the most beautiful places in the palace. The gardens are filled with lush vegetation, fountains, and sculptures. The gardens are also home to several rare species of plants, including a 400-year-old oak tree.
8. Attend a Concert or Performance
Wilanow Palace hosts several concerts and performances throughout the year. These events include classical music concerts, theater performances, and even opera and ballet. The palace is also home to the Wilanow Symphony Orchestra, which performs concerts throughout the year.
9. Take a Cooking Class
The Wilanow Palace also offers a variety of cooking classes. These classes are taught by professional chefs and feature traditional Polish dishes. You can learn how to make pierogi, golabki, and other traditional dishes.
10. Shop at the Palace Market
The Wilanow Palace also has a market, where you can buy souvenirs, antiques, and other items. The market has a variety of vendors selling handmade items, including jewelry, pottery, and clothing. You can also buy traditional Polish foods, such as pierogi, chocolates, and honey.
Wilanow Palace is a must-see for anyone visiting Warsaw. With its majestic architecture, lush gardens, and historical artifacts, it is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Whether you want to explore the palace grounds, visit the museum, take a guided tour, or shop at the market, Wilanow Palace has something for everyone.