Remains of wounded Warsaw Uprising insurgents murdered by SS troops in 1944

Raczyński Palace In Warsaw

Raczyński Palace Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Warsaw Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Raczyński (Czapski) Palace and Its Significance in Warsaw

Situated in the heart of Warsaw, Raczyński Palace—more widely known as Czapski Palace—is a distinguished symbol of Poland’s aristocratic legacy and cultural richness. This exquisite rococo landmark at 5 Krakowskie Przedmieście has been the silent witness to centuries of Polish history. From its 17th-century origins under the stewardship of noble families like the Czapskis and Radziwiłłs, through its vibrant cultural era with historical figures such as Fryderyk Chopin and Zygmunt Krasiński, to its wartime devastation and postwar restoration, the palace’s story mirrors that of Warsaw itself (The Unique Poland, Wikipedia).

Today, Raczyński (Czapski) Palace serves as the home of the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts and continues to foster artistic education and innovation. For visitors, the palace offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the city’s layered past, appreciate its architectural splendor, and explore its cultural contributions. This guide presents an in-depth look at the palace’s history, visitor information—including opening hours and ticketing—and tips for exploring Warsaw’s broader historical landscape.

The Raczyński family’s legacy extends beyond Warsaw. The Rogalin Palace near Poznań—another Raczyński residence—stands as a baroque jewel, celebrated for its art collections and gardens, and is ideal for those interested in Polish heritage day trips (Lonely Planet). The family’s influence and art collections are also central to the National Museum in Poznań, underscoring the enduring importance of the Raczyński name in Polish cultural history (Porta Polonica).

Remains of wounded Warsaw Uprising insurgents murdered by SS troops on 2 September 1944 at military hospital on Długa 7 street in Warsaw Old Town

Historical view of Długa Street in Warsaw looking towards Freta Street before 1930

Introduction
Historical Overview
Architectural Evolution & Ownership
Cultural Significance & Notable Residents
Transformations Through the Centuries
World War II and Reconstruction
The Palace Today
Visiting Information
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action
Key Dates and Facts
Poznań’s Rogalin Palace: Visiting Hours & Guide
Summary
References

Historical Overview

Early Foundations and Ownership

The origins of Czapski Palace date to the early 17th century, beginning as a wooden manor owned by Alexander Ludwik Radziwiłł. The transformation into a grand stone residence was initiated by Michał Kazimierz Radziwiłł and completed after its acquisition in 1680 by Bishop Michał Radziejowski, likely following plans by Tylman van Gameren (The Unique Poland).

Architectural Evolution

In 1733, the Czapski family remodeled the palace in the late Baroque style, incorporating rococo features that remain its signature today (Trek Zone). Over the years, the palace passed through the hands of notable families like the Małachowskis and Krasińskis. Architect Enrico Marconi’s 19th-century renovations further enhanced its grandeur.

Cultural Significance and Notable Residents

The palace’s history is intertwined with some of Poland’s greatest cultural icons. Fryderyk Chopin lived in the south annex from 1827 to 1830, composing some of his earliest works there. Zygmunt Krasiński, a prominent poet, was born in the palace, and Cyprian Norwid, another acclaimed poet, resided here for several years. Norwid’s poem “Chopin’s Piano” immortalizes the loss of Chopin’s instrument during the January Uprising (Wikipedia).

Transformations in the 19th and 20th Centuries

Under the stewardship of Edward Raczyński in the early 20th century—later President of Poland in Exile—the palace became a symbol of aristocratic patronage. Its salons were hubs of literary and artistic gatherings, further solidifying its role in Poland’s cultural narrative.

World War II and Postwar Reconstruction

World War II brought devastation: the palace was set ablaze during the 1939 siege and served as a field hospital during the Warsaw Uprising. The tragic execution of 430 wounded insurgents on the grounds is commemorated by a plaque (Traces of War). Meticulous restoration took place from 1948 to 1959 under Stanisław Brukalski, reviving the palace’s historic beauty.

The Palace Today

Currently, Czapski Palace houses the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts. Its prominent location near the Presidential Palace and the University of Warsaw, along with its ongoing artistic purpose, make it a central figure in Warsaw’s historic and cultural landscape.

Visiting Czapski Palace: Essential Information

Opening Hours

Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed on public holidays

Tickets and Admission

General admission: 20 PLN
Reduced tickets (students, seniors): 12 PLN
Free entry: Children under 7, Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts students

Guided Tours and Accessibility

Guided tours: Weekends at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM (advance booking recommended)
Self-guided audio tours: Download via the Audiala app
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps available

Travel Tips

Tickets: Purchase online to avoid queues during busy seasons
Photography: Permitted in public areas (no flash)
Transport: Tram stops and bus lines on Krakowskie Przedmieście for easy access

Nearby Attractions and Unique Features

Czapski Palace sits along Krakowskie Przedmieście, a boulevard rich with history and architectural marvels. Nearby sites include the Presidential Palace, University of Warsaw, Saxon Garden, and Church of the Holy Cross (resting place of Chopin’s heart). The palace courtyard often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, while the Academy’s website offers interactive virtual tours for digital exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are English-language guided tours available?
A: Yes, on weekends with advance booking.

Q: Where do I buy tickets?
A: Online and at the palace ticket office.

Q: Is the palace family-friendly?
A: Yes, with tours and educational workshops for children.

Q: Are there cafés nearby?
A: Numerous options on Krakowskie Przedmieście.

Q: Best time to visit?
A: Spring and fall for pleasant weather and vibrant surroundings.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Czapski Palace is a living monument to Warsaw’s resilience and artistic spirit. From the days of Chopin and Krasiński to the trials of World War II and its present role as a center of fine arts, the palace embodies Poland’s enduring cultural legacy. Plan your visit, immerse yourself in its stories, and explore Warsaw’s treasures along the Royal Route.

Enhance your experience: Download the Audiala app for audio guides and interactive maps, explore related posts on Warsaw’s cultural sites, and follow us for updates on exhibitions and events!

Key Dates and Facts

17th century: Wooden manor established
1680–1705: Stone palace constructed
1733: Remodeled by the Czapski family
1812: Birth of Zygmunt Krasiński
1827–1830: Fryderyk Chopin’s residence
1851–1852: Renovation by Enrico Marconi
1909–1939: Edward Raczyński’s ownership
1939: Palace burned during WWII
1944: Mass execution of insurgents
1948–1959: Postwar reconstruction
Present: Home to the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts

Poznań’s Rogalin Palace: Visiting Hours & Guide

Overview

Raczyński Palace in Rogalin, near Poznań, is another testament to the family’s cultural patronage. This baroque palace, surrounded by splendid gardens and famed for its art collection, is one of Greater Poland’s foremost attractions (Lonely Planet).

Location & Getting There

Address: ul. Arciszewskiego 2, Rogalin, Poland
From Poznań: Train to Mosina, then bus 699 to Rogalin (approx. 50 min total). Car travel takes about 40 minutes. Limited public transport on Sundays.

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, last entry one hour before closing (seasonal variations; check official website)
Admission: Combined tickets approx. 35–40 PLN; discounts for students, seniors, children; free entry on select weekdays (Lonely Planet)
Guided Tours: Multilingual audio guides included with admission

Highlights

Palace Interior: Lavish rooms, period furnishings
Painting Gallery: 19th- and 20th-century Polish and European art, including works by Jan Matejko and Jacek Malczewski
London Study & Portrait Gallery: Edward Bernard Raczyński’s recreated exile workspace
Coach House: Historic carriages
Gardens: French and English landscape styles; ancient oaks “Lech, Czech, Rus”
Family Chapel & Mausoleum: Inspired by France’s Maison Carrée

Facilities & Accessibility

Restrooms, café, gift shop onsite
Partial accessibility; contact ahead for mobility assistance
Parking near entrance

Visitor Tips

Language: Staff speak some English; learning basic Polish phrases is helpful (Key to Poland)
Weather: Dress for the season; palace is busiest on weekends
Nearby Attractions: Kórnik Castle, Kórnik Arboretum, Wielkopolska National Park

Summary

Raczyński (Czapski) Palace in Warsaw is a vital link to the city’s aristocratic and artistic heritage. Its architectural splendor, historical significance, and central location make it an essential stop for visitors. The broader Raczyński legacy—encompassing Rogalin Palace and the art collections in Poznań—further enriches Poland’s cultural narrative (Porta Polonica, Lonely Planet).

Whether you are drawn by history, architecture, or art, these sites offer a rewarding journey into Poland’s past and present. For a complete experience, leverage digital resources like the Audiala app, and stay connected through cultural posts and social media.