Stanisław Staszic Monument: Complete Guide to Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Warsaw’s Historical Sites
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
The Stanisław Staszic Monument in Warsaw stands as a profound tribute to one of Poland’s foremost Enlightenment figures. Stanisław Staszic (1755–1826) was a pioneering scientist, philosopher, social reformer, and a central figure in Polish intellectual history. The monument serves not only as a site of remembrance but also as a gateway for visitors to connect with the nation’s enduring commitment to science, education, and cultural resilience. Prominently located on the campus of the Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW) in Ursynów, as well as on Krakowskie Przedmieście near the Staszic Palace, these memorials reflect the breadth of Staszic’s influence on Warsaw’s academic and urban landscape (Wikipedia: Stanisław Staszic Monument, SGGW Official Website, bibliotekanauki.pl). This guide offers detailed information on the monument’s history, design, visiting hours, accessibility, and practical tips, ensuring visitors enjoy a meaningful and well-informed experience at one of Warsaw’s most treasured historical sites.
Contents
- Origins and Purpose of the Stanisław Staszic Monument
- Design and Artistic Features
- Location and Historical Context
- Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- How to Get There
- Travel Tips and Best Times to Visit
- Nearby Attractions
- Guided Tours and Events
- Visitor Facilities and Safety
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Visual Media Recommendations
- Conclusion and Call to Action
- References
Origins and Purpose of the Stanisław Staszic Monument
Erected to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Staszic’s death, the Stanisław Staszic Monument honors his role as a visionary in Polish science, education, and social reform (Wikipedia: Stanisław Staszic Monument). The initiative was led by the Society of the Friends of Warsaw, with significant support from SGGW alumni and other donors. The monument’s creation underscores the values Staszic championed—progress, national development, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Design and Artistic Features
SGGW Monument (Ursynów Campus)
Designed by sculptor Stanisław Lipski, this monument features a glacial erratic rock from the Museum of the Earth of the Polish Academy of Sciences. A contemplative bust of Staszic is carved into the rock’s upper corner. The granite pedestal and boulder symbolize the enduring strength of Staszic’s contributions to geology and science (Wikipedia: Stanisław Staszic Monument). An inscription commemorates Staszic’s achievements as a patriot, statesman, naturalist, and pioneer of geology, mining, and social reform.
Krakowskie Przedmieście Monument
On Krakowskie Przedmieście, the bronze statue by Stanisław Roman Lewandowski (unveiled 1890, replaced after WWII) depicts Staszic seated in academic robes, holding a scroll representative of his scholarly pursuits. The neoclassical pedestal, facing the University of Warsaw, integrates the monument into the academic and cultural landscape (theuniquepoland.com).
Location and Historical Context
- SGGW Monument: Nowoursynowska 166, 02-787 Warsaw (Ursynów district), on the SGGW campus (SGGW Official Website).
- Krakowskie Przedmieście Monument: In front of Staszic Palace (Nowy Świat 72), along Warsaw’s Royal Route, adjacent to the Polish Academy of Sciences (go2warsaw.pl).
The Staszic Palace itself is a neoclassical landmark, originally built as the headquarters for the Society of Friends of Science and today home to the Polish Academy of Sciences (whitemad.pl).
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Visiting Hours: Both monuments are outdoors and accessible to the public 24/7, year-round.
- Tickets: No admission fees or tickets are required.
- Accessibility: Both sites offer wheelchair-accessible paths. Multilingual signage (Polish and English) is present. Audio guides and additional information can be requested through SGGW or the Polish Academy of Sciences (go2warsaw.pl).
How to Get There
SGGW Monument (Nowoursynowska 166)
- Metro: Stokłosy Station (M1 line), then a 1.5 km walk or local bus.
- Bus Lines: 179, 193, 209, 239, and 401 stop directly at the campus.
- Car/Taxi: Entry via Nowoursynowska Street; limited campus parking.
- Cycling/Walking: Campus is pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly, with Veturilo bike-sharing stations nearby.
Krakowskie Przedmieście Monument
- Centrally located, easily accessible on foot from Warsaw Old Town and close to public transport stops. Taxi fare from city center is 30–50 PLN, about 20–30 minutes.
Travel Tips and Best Times to Visit
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and quieter atmosphere.
- Spring and autumn offer the most picturesque campus views.
- Combine your visit with the nearby University of Warsaw, Holy Cross Church, or the Copernicus Monument.
- Use public transport or bike-sharing for convenience.
Nearby Attractions
- Near SGGW Monument: SGGW Botanical Gardens, Kabaty Forest, local cafés.
- Near Krakowskie Przedmieście: University of Warsaw, Holy Cross Church, Copernicus and Chopin Monuments, Royal Castle.
Guided Tours and Events
- SGGW and the Polish Academy of Sciences organize annual commemorative ceremonies and academic events at the monuments (SGGW Official Website).
- Guided tours of Krakowskie Przedmieście often include the monument and surrounding historic sites.
- Educational programs and special events are held on anniversaries and during Warsaw’s Science Festival.
Visitor Facilities and Safety
- Facilities: Public restrooms within university buildings; benches and shaded seating around monuments; cafés nearby.
- Safety: The Ursynów district and SGGW campus are safe, with campus security present. Emergency services: dial 112.
- Language: Polish and English signage; English widely spoken among staff and students.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the visiting hours for the Stanisław Staszic Monument?
A: Both monuments are outdoors and accessible 24/7, year-round.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, visiting is free of charge.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes. Tours are offered during special events or through local operators; contact SGGW or the Polish Academy of Sciences for details.
Q: Is the monument accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, there are wheelchair-accessible paths and additional support upon request.
Q: What public transport options are available?
A: Multiple bus lines and metro stations serve both locations. Details above.
Visual Media Recommendations
Find high-quality photographs and interactive maps of both monuments on the SGGW Official Website and Warsaw’s tourism portals. For the best photography, visit during spring or autumn when the surrounding gardens are in bloom.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The Stanisław Staszic Monument offers a unique window into Poland’s Enlightenment heritage, scientific advancement, and cultural identity. Freely accessible, thoughtfully designed, and deeply rooted in Warsaw’s academic and urban fabric, these monuments are essential destinations for anyone seeking to understand the city’s historical and intellectual legacy. Enhance your experience by combining your visit with other nearby cultural sites, and use the Audiala app for curated audio guides and up-to-date event information.
Plan your visit today. Download the Audiala app for guided tours, follow us on social media for the latest updates, and explore more about Warsaw’s historical landmarks through our related articles and resources.
