Raczyński Palace, more widely known as Czapski Palace, is a rococo landmark at 5 Krakowskie Przedmieście in central Warsaw. A symbol of Poland’s aristocratic and cultural heritage, it is now home to the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts. Its history spans noble ownership, artistic life, wartime destruction and postwar restoration (The Unique Poland, Wikipedia).
History
The palace began as a wooden manor in the early 17th century, owned by Alexander Ludwik Radziwiłł. Michał Kazimierz Radziwiłł initiated its transformation into a stone residence. After Bishop Michał Radziejowski acquired it in 1680, construction was completed, likely following plans by Tylman van Gameren. The stone palace is also dated to 1680–1705 (The Unique Poland).
In 1733, the Czapski family remodeled the palace in the late Baroque style, adding rococo features that remain its signature (Trek Zone). Ownership later passed among families including the Małachowskis and Krasińskis. Zygmunt Krasiński, a prominent poet, was born there in 1812.
Fryderyk Chopin lived in the south annex from 1827 to 1830 and composed some of his earliest works there. Cyprian Norwid, another acclaimed poet, also resided at the palace for several years. Norwid’s poem “Chopin’s Piano” commemorates the loss of Chopin’s instrument during the January Uprising (Wikipedia).
Architect Enrico Marconi renovated the palace in 1851–1852. In the early 20th century, the palace became a centre of aristocratic patronage and literary and artistic gatherings under Edward Raczyński, later President of Poland in Exile. His ownership is dated to 1909–1939.
During World War II, the palace was set ablaze in 1939 and later served as a field hospital during the Warsaw Uprising. A plaque commemorates the execution of 430 wounded insurgents on the grounds in 1944 (Traces of War). Stanisław Brukalski led the palace’s restoration from 1948 to 1959.
What to See
The palace’s late Baroque architecture and rococo features reflect its 1733 remodeling and later renovations. Its courtyard often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. The palace is near the Presidential Palace and the University of Warsaw, and continues to serve as a centre for artistic education and innovation.
The Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts website offers interactive virtual tours. The palace’s history and cultural significance are also connected to the broader Raczyński legacy, including the family’s art collections and influence at the National Museum in Poznań (Porta Polonica).
Practical Visiting Information
Opening Hours
- Monday–Friday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Saturday–Sunday 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Public holidays Closed
Tickets and Admission
- General admission 20 PLN
- Reduced admission for students and seniors 12 PLN
- Free entry Children under 7 and Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts students
Tickets are available online and at the palace ticket office.
Tours and Accessibility
- Guided tours Weekends at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM; advance booking is recommended.
- English-language tours Available on weekends with advance booking.
- Self-guided audio tours Available to download through the Audiala app.
- Accessibility Wheelchair accessible, with elevators and ramps.
Tips
- Online ticket purchases can help avoid queues during busy seasons.
- Photography is permitted in public areas; flash is not allowed.
- Tram stops and bus lines on Krakowskie Przedmieście provide access to the palace.
- Spring and fall are suggested as times to visit for pleasant weather and vibrant surroundings.
- The palace is family-friendly, with tours and educational workshops for children.
- Numerous cafés are located on Krakowskie Przedmieście.
Nearby Places
Warsaw
Czapski Palace is on Krakowskie Przedmieście, a boulevard with historic sites and architecture. Nearby attractions include the Presidential Palace, University of Warsaw, Saxon Garden and the Church of the Holy Cross, where Chopin’s heart rests.
Rogalin Palace near Poznań
The Raczyński family’s legacy also extends to Rogalin Palace near Poznań, a Baroque residence known for its art collection and gardens (Lonely Planet).
- Address ul. Arciszewskiego 2, Rogalin, Poland
- Getting there from Poznań Take a train to Mosina, then bus 699 to Rogalin; the journey takes approximately 50 minutes in total. Driving takes about 40 minutes. Public transport is limited on Sundays.
- Opening hours Tuesday–Sunday, with last entry one hour before closing. Hours vary seasonally; check the official website.
- Admission Combined tickets cost approximately 35–40 PLN. Discounts are available for students, seniors and children; entry is free on select weekdays (Lonely Planet).
- Guides Multilingual audio guides are included with admission.
Highlights include the palace’s lavish rooms and period furnishings; a painting gallery of 19th- and 20th-century Polish and European art, including works by Jan Matejko and Jacek Malczewski; Edward Bernard Raczyński’s recreated exile workspace in the London Study and Portrait Gallery; historic carriages in the Coach House; French- and English-style gardens; the ancient oaks “Lech, Czech, Rus”; and a family chapel and mausoleum inspired by France’s Maison Carrée.
The site has restrooms, a café, a gift shop and parking near the entrance. Accessibility is partial; contact the palace ahead of a visit for mobility assistance. Staff speak some English, and learning basic Polish phrases may be helpful (Key to Poland). Dress for the season; the palace is busiest on weekends. Nearby attractions include Kórnik Castle, Kórnik Arboretum and Wielkopolska National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are English-language guided tours available at Czapski Palace?
Yes. They are available on weekends with advance booking.
Where can I buy tickets?
Online or at the palace ticket office.
Is the palace family-friendly?
Yes. Tours and educational workshops are available for children.
Are there cafés nearby?
There are numerous options on Krakowskie Przedmieście.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and fall are suggested for pleasant weather and vibrant surroundings.
