Ogród Botaniczny w Warszawie view with lush green plants and trees under clear sky

Old Orangery

Old Orangery Warsaw: Comprehensive Visiting Guide, History, and Practical Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled within the lush expanse of Royal Łazienki Park, the Old Orangery (Stara Oranżeria) is one of Warsaw’s most significant and enchanting historical sites. Originally built in the late 18th century under King Stanisław August Poniatowski, the Orangery reflects the ideals of the Polish Enlightenment, harmoniously blending neoclassical architecture, royal patronage, and a vibrant cultural legacy.

This guide provides a thorough overview of the Old Orangery’s history, architectural features, visitor information—including opening hours, ticket details, accessibility, and travel tips—as well as highlights of nearby attractions and special events. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a cultural explorer, the Old Orangery offers a multifaceted experience at the heart of Warsaw.

For in-depth information and updates, refer to the official Łazienki Museum website, as well as specialized heritage resources (mazovia.tourpoland.net, theatre-architecture.eu).

Oranzeria dolna greenhouse interior with lush green plants and wooden structure

Panoramic view of Warsaw city skyline in Poland with modern buildings and Vistula River

Botanical garden view from the south side with lush greenery and trees

Watercolor painting of Ujazdowski Castle and surroundings by Zygmunt Vogla from 1794-1795

Old Orangery building in Łazienki Park, Warsaw, Poland

Old Orangery building in Łazienki Park, Warsaw with classical architecture and surrounding greenery

Historical Background and Royal Patronage
Architectural Features and Restoration
The Royal Theatre and Sculpture Gallery
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Ticket Prices
Accessibility
Getting There
Facilities and Visitor Services
Special Events, Tours, and Photography
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Tips
Sources

Historical Background and Royal Patronage

The Old Orangery was constructed between 1784 and 1788, designed by the Italian-Polish architect Domenico Merlini at the behest of King Stanisław August Poniatowski, the last monarch of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Intended originally as a greenhouse for exotic Mediterranean plants, the Orangery was also conceived as a vibrant center for the arts, reflecting the Enlightenment belief in the integration of nature, art, and intellectual pursuits (mazovia.tourpoland.net).

Strategically located in the western sector of Łazienki Park, the Orangery’s southern façade, with its arcaded windows and pilasters, maximizes sunlight for wintering plants while presenting an elegant neoclassical appearance. The building’s dual function—serving as both a horticultural facility and a cultural venue—set it apart from other European orangeries of its era.

Architectural Features and Restoration

The Old Orangery displays a restrained neoclassical style, characterized by a rectangular horseshoe plan and a series of seventeen large, arcaded windows. The main block was originally used to shelter orange, laurel, and myrtle trees during cold months, with two extending wings: the western for guest rooms and gardening facilities, and the broader eastern wing housing the Royal Theatre (theatre-architecture.eu).

Royal Theatre: Completed in 1788, the theatre is one of the few remaining authentic 18th-century court theatres in Europe. Its wooden interior is adorned with trompe-l’oeil marble and ornate stuccowork, creating an illusion of grandeur in an intimate setting. The theatre amazed contemporary visitors, including foreign dignitaries, for its artistic finesse and acoustics.

Sculpture Gallery: The Orangery also contains a remarkable sculpture gallery, with over 700 works ranging from Roman and Greek copies to masterpieces by Polish sculptors of the 19th and 20th centuries. The gallery’s layout and decor were meticulously restored between 2012 and 2016, reviving its historical ambiance (lazienki-krolewskie.pl).

Despite suffering damage during World War II, the Orangery’s main structure survived. Postwar and contemporary conservation efforts have restored its architectural integrity, modernized facilities, and adapted the building for ongoing cultural use (theatre-architecture.eu).

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

May 1 – September 30:
- Tuesday–Wednesday: 10:00–17:00
- Thursday–Friday: 10:00–18:00
- Saturday: 12:00–20:00
- Sunday: 10:00–16:00
October 1 – April 30:
- Tuesday–Wednesday: 9:00–16:00
- Thursday–Saturday: 10:00–18:00
- Sunday: 10:00–16:00

Last admission is 30 minutes before closing; ticket office closes one hour before the building. The Orangery is closed on Mondays and major national holidays (Łazienki-Królewskie – Opening Hours).

Ticket Prices

Single Entry (Old Orangery):
- Adult: 30 PLN
- Reduced: 15 PLN
- Children over 7 & students under 26: 1 PLN
- Adults with Large Family Card: 20 PLN
Combined Tickets (multiple Łazienki sites):
- Adult: 90 PLN (approx. 2.5 hours)
- Reduced: 45 PLN
- Large Family Card: 65 PLN
Shorter Combined Ticket (approx. 2 hours):
- Adult: 70 PLN
- Reduced: 35 PLN
- Large Family Card: 50 PLN

Tickets available at cash desks and machines in the Officer Cadets School, Old Orangery, Kubicki Stables, and Cantonists’ Barracks. Fridays offer free admission for individual visitors (expect crowds) (Łazienki-Królewskie – Tickets).

Accessibility

The Old Orangery is adapted for visitors with disabilities, recognized with the “Warsaw without Barriers” award.
Wheelchair access is available; some areas may have minor limitations.
Public restrooms are located nearby (6:00–20:00 daily).
For assistance or details, contact the Reservation Department: +48 504 243 783 (Łazienki-Królewskie – Contact).

Getting There

Address: Royal Łazienki Park, Aleje Ujazdowskie, Warsaw.
Public Transport:
- Trams: 10, 18, 33
- Buses: 116, 166, 180
- Stop: “Łazienki Królewskie,” then a short walk along Agrykola Street (evendo.com).
Parking: Limited near the park entrances; public transport recommended.

Facilities and Visitor Services

Museum store in the Officer Cadets School
Cafés and rest zones throughout the park
Multilingual guided tours available by prior arrangement
Temporary closures and ticket office breaks may occur—check updates online

Special Events, Tours, and Photography

Royal Theatre Performances: Regular concerts, chamber music, opera, and educational workshops
Seasonal Events: Outdoor concerts, art festivals, and temporary exhibitions
Guided Tours: Available in several languages; book in advance for groups
Photography: Non-flash photography is allowed in most areas; flash/tripods may be restricted, especially in the Royal Theatre and gallery

Nearby Attractions

Palace on the Isle: The former royal residence, open for tours
Myślewicki Palace: Another neoclassical gem, home to temporary exhibitions
Chopin Monument: Iconic Art Nouveau sculpture within Łazienki Park
White Pavilion and Water Tower: Included in combined ticket options

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Old Orangery’s opening hours?
A: Seasonal hours vary; generally open Tuesday to Sunday. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing. Check the official website for updates.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Standard single entry is 30 PLN for adults, 15 PLN reduced; free for children under 7 and students under 26 pay 1 PLN. Combined tickets available.

Q: Is the Old Orangery wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with minor limitations in some areas. Contact staff for assistance.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages. Book in advance for groups.

Q: Is photography allowed inside?
A: Generally, yes—non-flash only. Restrictions may apply in select areas.

Q: Are there free admission days?
A: Fridays offer free entry for individuals (no groups).

Summary and Final Tips

The Old Orangery in Warsaw’s Royal Łazienki Park is a testament to Enlightenment ideals, royal patronage, and the enduring value of cultural heritage. Its neoclassical architecture, rare 18th-century Royal Theatre, and extensive sculpture gallery offer visitors a unique window into Poland’s artistic and historical legacy. With thoughtful restoration, accessible facilities, and a dynamic program of events, the Orangery remains a vibrant destination for locals and travelers alike.