Construction of the new Rotunda building in the center of Warsaw

Rotunda Pko In Warsaw

PKO Rotunda Warsaw: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: PKO Rotunda – Warsaw’s Modern Icon and Living Memorial

The PKO Rotunda, an unmistakable architectural landmark in central Warsaw, stands at the intersection of Marszałkowska Street and Aleje Jerozolimskie. More than just a striking building, the Rotunda embodies resilience, innovation, and community—themes woven into the city’s post-war history and ongoing urban transformation. Since its original completion in 1966 as a key element of the “Eastern Wall” city center project, the Rotunda has been a gathering point, a site of tragedy, and now, a vibrant symbol of Warsaw’s ability to honor its past while embracing the future (stolat.pkobp.pl; Wikipedia).

This comprehensive guide explores the Rotunda’s fascinating history, practical visitor information, architectural highlights, and its ongoing cultural significance. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or traveler, the Rotunda PKO is a must-visit during your time in Warsaw.

Construction of the new Rotunda building in central Warsaw

Construction site of the new Rotunda building in downtown Warsaw

Construction of the new Rotunda building in downtown Warsaw

Construction of the new Rotunda in central Warsaw with cranes and building materials

Construction site of the new Rotunda building in the center of Warsaw

Construction site of the new Rotunda building in central Warsaw with cranes and scaffolding

Rondo Dmowskiego square with Widok Towers in Warsaw

Cityscape of Warsaw in May 2022 showing skyscrapers and urban landscape

Construction site of the new Rotunda and Widok Towers in central Warsaw

Construction of the new Rotunda and Widok Towers in the center of Warsaw

Construction site of the new Rotunda and Widok Towers in central Warsaw on February 28, 2019

Dmowski Square in Warsaw with PKO Rotunda building in the center

Hotel Forum in Warsaw seen from Śródmiejski Passage in the 1970s

Nowa Rotunda PKO building in Warsaw viewed from Al. Jerozolimskie in 2024

Palace of Culture and Science with the Rotunda PKO and Universal Office Building in Warsaw

Palace of Culture and Science, Rotunda PKO and Universal Building in Warsaw 1960s

Rotunda PKO building in Warsaw seen from the Palace of Culture and Science

Rotunda building in Warsaw with clear blue sky

Rotunda building in Warsaw with clear sky

Rotunda PKO building in Warsaw illuminated at dusk in 1968

Historic rotunda used as an advertising column in urban setting

Rotunda and Uniwersal buildings in Warsaw covered in snow in January 2014

Intersection of Aleje Jerozolimskie and Marszałkowska Streets in Warsaw in the 1960s

Ulica Marszałkowska street in Warsaw in the 1960s showing historic buildings and vintage traffic

Panoramic view of Warsaw during Easter 2008 with festive atmosphere and clear sky

City view of Warsaw during Easter 2008 with festive decorations

Historical Background

Origins and Architectural Vision

Erected in 1966, the Rotunda PKO was designed by Jerzy Jakubowicz, with engineering by Stanisław Więcek and Włodzimierz Wojnowski. Its transparent glass façade and serrated roof—nicknamed the “general’s cap”—quickly became a symbol of modernist optimism in postwar Warsaw (whitemad.pl). The building replaced a corner tenement destroyed during World War II, and its completion marked a new era in Warsaw’s urban renewal (stolat.pkobp.pl).

The Rotunda fast became one of the city’s most popular meeting points, immortalized in the phrase “Spotkajmy się pod Rotundą” (“Let’s meet at the Rotunda”). Its centrality and unique architecture made it a natural hub for both everyday life and special occasions (stolat.pkobp.pl).

The 1979 Gas Explosion: Tragedy and Memory

On February 15, 1979, a gas explosion destroyed much of the Rotunda, killing 49 people and injuring around 100 (raportwarszawski.pl). Rescue operations and a swift rebuilding process followed, but the tragedy left a deep scar on Warsaw’s collective memory. Annual commemorations and on-site memorials—most notably the engraved columns—ensure that the victims are not forgotten (eVolo).

Reconstruction and Contemporary Reinterpretation

After being rebuilt in the late 1970s, the Rotunda underwent another major transformation between 2017 and 2019. The current building, designed by Gowin & Siuta and Barker Freeman Design Office (BFDO), preserves the iconic circular form and introduces innovative features—like a pleated canopy inspired by Polish wycinanki and a rooftop rain garden—while respecting the site’s history (ArchDaily; Arch2O; Nowa Warszawa).

Architectural Evolution and Design Features

Modernist Roots and 21st Century Innovation

The Rotunda’s striking circular layout and glass façade continue to set it apart in Warsaw’s cityscape. The latest reconstruction melds tradition and innovation through:

Pleated Canopy: Inspired by traditional Polish paper cuttings (wycinanki) and corn poppy petals, the canopy provides both shelter and visual drama, especially when illuminated in the evening (Arch2O).
Sustainable Technologies: The integration of photovoltaic cells and micro wind turbines reflects Warsaw’s commitment to green energy and urban sustainability (eVolo).
Rain Garden: The rooftop garden absorbs stormwater and supports local biodiversity.
Memorial Columns: Forty-nine columns—each engraved with the name of a 1979 explosion victim—serve as both structural supports and a living tribute (eVolo).

Multifunctional Urban Space

Today, the Rotunda is much more than a bank. The ground floor hosts Poland’s most advanced PKO Bank Polski branch, while the upper floors and plaza serve as open event and meeting zones—the “Strefa Spotkań.” The space is designed for flexibility, accommodating exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events (Nowa Warszawa; Warsaw Negotiations).

Visiting the Rotunda PKO: Practical Information

Location and Getting There

Address: Marszałkowska 100/102, 00-026 Warszawa
Transport: Easily accessible via Centrum metro station (M1, M2), tram and bus lines at Dmowskiego Roundabout. Warsaw Central Station and major city attractions are within walking distance (The Thorough Tripper).

Visiting Hours

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
(Hours may vary on public holidays; check the official website for updates.)

Entrance & Tickets

Plaza and Memorial Area: Open to the public 24/7, free of charge.
Bank Branch & Multimedia Centres: Open during business hours (see above); no tickets required.
Events & Exhibitions: Free unless otherwise stated for special events.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms.
Multimedia Information Centres offer digital and print resources for all visitors (eVolo).
Free Wi-Fi throughout the building.

Visitor Amenities

On-site café with snacks and beverages.
Comfortable public seating and rest areas in both indoor and outdoor zones.
Security is robust due to active banking operations.
Public restrooms are available in adjacent commercial buildings.

Memorial Experience and Annual Commemoration

An especially moving moment at the Rotunda occurs each February 15 at 12:37 p.m.—the exact time of the 1979 explosion—when sunlight passes through the sunken plaza to illuminate the memorial columns. This annual phenomenon draws citizens and visitors together in shared remembrance, while the memorial area itself remains a contemplative space year-round (eVolo).

What to See and Do at Rotunda PKO

Marvel at the Architecture: Admire the pleated canopy, glass façade, and innovative sustainable features.
Reflect at the Memorial: Pay respects at the engraved columns and experience the sunlight alignment on February 15.
Relax in the Strefa Spotkań: Enjoy a coffee, work, or socialize in the meeting zone.
Attend Events: Participate in exhibitions, conferences, and cultural activities—check on-site announcements or the official website for schedules.
Explore Nearby: Combine your visit with the Palace of Culture and Science, Nowy Świat street, and Warsaw’s Old Town (The Crazy Tourist).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: Evenings are especially atmospheric due to the illuminated canopy. For the memorial experience, visit on February 15 at 12:37 p.m.
Accessibility: The entire plaza and building are designed for barrier-free access.
Photography: Capture the interplay of light and structure, but respect the solemnity of memorial spaces.
Language: English is widely spoken, but learning a few phrases in Polish is appreciated.
Safety: The area is safe and well-monitored. Exercise standard city awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Rotunda PKO?
A: The plaza is open 24/7. The bank branch and multimedia centres are open Monday to Friday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, closed Sundays.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No, entry to public and memorial areas is free. Some special events may require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Guided tours for groups and educational visits are offered by appointment. Check ahead via the official website.

Q: Is the Rotunda accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building and plaza are fully accessible.

Q: How do I get there using public transport?
A: Take the metro to Centrum station or use tram/bus lines serving Dmowskiego Roundabout.

Q: What is unique about the memorial experience?
A: On February 15 at 12:37 p.m., the sun aligns to illuminate the memorial columns—a powerful annual tribute to the 1979 tragedy.

Community, Sustainability & Innovation

The Rotunda PKO is more than a piece of architecture; it is a hub for civic life and a model for sustainable urban design. The integration of solar and wind technologies, together with accessible design and meaningful memorialization, make it a benchmark for future developments in Warsaw and beyond (eVolo; Arch2O).

Plan Your Visit

For the latest information on visiting hours, events, and guided tours, visit the official Rotunda PKO website or download the Audiala app for personalized travel guides and event updates. Follow us on social media for insider tips and stories about Warsaw’s vibrant urban life.

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Summary & Final Tips

The PKO Rotunda is a living monument to Warsaw’s endurance, creativity, and community spirit. Its blend of architectural innovation, public space, and poignant memorialization makes it an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the city’s past and present. Free to visit, centrally located, and accessible to all, the Rotunda is an invitation to reflect, connect, and experience the heart of Poland’s capital (stolat.pkobp.pl; eVolo; Arch2O; ArchDaily; WarsawTour; Nowa Warszawa).