A right regal tour
Royal residences, which hark back to the times of a strong and powerful Poland ruled by kings, have particular importance. Take a tour of the homes of Polish crowned heads, and you will find masterpieces of art in painting and sculpture by Polish and other European artists and stylish furniture adorning the castle and palace interiors.
It makes good sense to start visiting the royal residences in Warsaw, the capital because that is where you will find four of them:
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The Royal Castle — a carefully reconstructed monument
It’s a true phenomenon! Completely destroyed during the Second World War, it was rebuilt thanks to the voluntary contributions of the entire Polish nation. Together with the Old Town, it was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1980.
These days it is home to a museum with paintings by such masters as Rembrandt and Canaletto, who was the court painter of the last king of Poland, Stanisław August Poniatowski.
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The Royal Łazienki Park - a romantic spot for art lovers
The most beautiful park in the capital and one of Europe’s largest garden complexes. The 76-hectare palace-and-park complex symbolizes the legacy of the last king of Poland, Stanisław August Poniatowski. These treasured buildings include the Palace on the Isle, the Myślewicki Palace, the White Pavilion, the Old Orangery, and the Amphitheatre. A favorite destination for walks among the locals, the Łazienki also serves as a museum and an event venue.
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King Jan III's Palace at Wilanów – Warsaw’s Baroque pearl
This historic residence was built for King Jan III Sobieski. It combines the traditions of the Polish manor with the rural Italian villa and the French palace.
The Wilanów palace-and-park complex is home to the Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanów. The palace interiors, with their original design and rich furnishings, represent three art periods. It also has many Polish portraits and works of painting, sculpture, and goldsmithing in its collection. Surrounding the palace is a two-level garden representing a variety of styles.
In search of unique royal residences, let us move from the present capital of Poland to the former one, i.e., Kraków, and visit Wawel Hill.
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Wawel Royal Castle — the pantheon of kings and national heroes
One of the most recognizable castles in Poland and Europe. it is also a national and cultural symbol of Polish identity. Together with the Old Town, Wawel Hill, and the Kazimierz and Stradom districts, the castle was listed as one of the first 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (inscribed in 1978).
The heart of the cultural capital of Poland is now a museum with more than 70 exhibition rooms. The permanent exhibition includes representative and private royal chambers, a treasury, and an armory.
These are the most important royal residences in Poland. Let them inspire you to visit others to learn about their history and admire art in every form.
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