Street Świętojerska in Warsaw near Freta, historic buildings and urban scenery

Świętojerska Street

Świętojerska Street, Warsaw: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Świętojerska Street, situated in Warsaw’s historic New Town, is a living testament to the city’s layered past and vibrant present. From its origins as a medieval ecclesiastical route to its poignant role in the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II, Świętojerska embodies centuries of transformation, resilience, and cultural memory. Today, the street seamlessly blends history with modern urban life, offering visitors a unique lens through which to explore Warsaw’s complex narrative. Its proximity to landmarks like Krasiński Palace, the Warsaw Old Town, and ghetto boundary markers makes it an essential destination for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Polish capital’s heritage (Warsaw Tourist Office; Jewish Historical Institute; Audiala).

This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into Świętojerska’s history, cultural significance, practical visiting tips—including hours, accessibility, and nearby attractions—as well as recommendations for enhancing your visit with guided tours and digital resources.

Memorial plaque of the 104th Company of the Polish Syndicalists Union on the wall of the building at Świętojerska Street 4/10, Warsaw

Street view of Ulica Świętojerska in Warsaw between Bonifraterska and Andersa streets

Sidewalk along Świętojerska Street near the entrance to Krasiński Garden at Wałowa Street level in Warsaw

Market hall at Swietojerska street in Warsaw, Poland

Historic tenement building at the corner of Świętojerska and Nowiniarska streets in Warsaw

Front and side view of a Plymouth Prowler car in Warsaw Poland

Rear view of a purple Plymouth Prowler car parked on the street in Warsaw, Poland

Plymouth Prowler parked on street in Warsaw, Poland

Historic view of Świętojerska Street in Warsaw before 1939

Historic view of Ulica Świętojerska street in Warsaw around 1960 with vintage cars and buildings

Street view of Ulica Świętojerska in Warsaw before 1939 with historic buildings

Burning houses on Nalewki Street during the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising

Crossing of Świętojerska and Freta streets in Warsaw with historic buildings and street signs

Crossing of Świętojerska and Freta streets in Warsaw with historic buildings and cobblestone road

Introduction
Historical Highlights of Świętojerska Street
Visiting Świętojerska Street: Practical Information
Key Historical Landmarks and Memorials
Parks and Green Spaces
Urban Design and Social Dynamics
Architectural Features
Cultural and Artistic Impressions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit and Explore More
References & Further Reading

Historical Highlights of Świętojerska Street

Medieval Origins and Early Development

Świętojerska Street originated as a medieval route associated with the Church of St. George, forming the Świętojerska jurydyka, a semi-autonomous ecclesiastical district in the 14th century. Its early names, such as ulica Świętego Jerzego, reflected its religious roots.

Baroque Expansion and Urban Transformation

By the 17th and 18th centuries, the street was lined with noble townhouses and grand residences, notably the Krasiński Palace designed by Tylman van Gameren. The area became a cultural and social hub, with paved streets and the nearby National Theatre enhancing its prominence.

19th-Century Industry and Jewish Heritage

Industrialization in the 19th century brought market halls and factories, making Świętojerska a bustling commercial artery. The street was central to Warsaw’s Jewish community, with the nearby Nalewki Street being a focal point of Jewish life (JHI).

World War II and the Warsaw Ghetto

During WWII, parts of Świętojerska Street were incorporated into the Warsaw Ghetto. The street witnessed tragic events, including resistance activities at the brushmakers’ shop and the work of the Oneg Shabbat Archive, which clandestinely documented life in the ghetto (1943.pl; CNET).

Postwar Reconstruction and Modern Era

After WWII, much of the street’s original architecture was lost, but careful reconstruction and new development have restored Świętojerska as a key urban artery. Today, it is home to civic institutions, embassies, and modern residences, yet remains closely tied to its historical roots (Academia.edu).

Visiting Świętojerska Street: Practical Information

Location & How to Get There

Świętojerska Street is located in the New Town, just north of the Old Town. The closest metro station is Ratusz Arsenał (Line M1), with tram and bus connections nearby. Walking from the Old Town Market Square takes about 10 minutes (TouristPlaces Guide).

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Street Access: Świętojerska is a public street, open 24/7 with no entrance fee.
Nearby Museums: Institutions like the POLIN Museum are open Tuesday–Sunday (10:00–18:00), with admission fees for adults and discounts available (POLIN Museum).
Guided Tours: Available through Warsaw’s tourism offices and private operators. Tours focusing on Jewish Warsaw and WWII history often include Świętojerska (Cityrama).

Accessibility

The street is pedestrian-friendly, with wide, mostly flat sidewalks. While most areas are accessible, some surfaces are cobbled. Wheelchair users should plan ahead or contact local information offices for assistance.

Travel Tips

Use tram lines 4, 10, 22, or bus lines 180, 222.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and for the best light for photos.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones.

Key Historical Landmarks and Memorials

Warsaw Ghetto Boundary Markers

Świętojerska Street features Warsaw Ghetto boundary markers, commemorating the WWII ghetto’s perimeter. These outdoor memorials are accessible at all times and are both wheelchair- and stroller-friendly (Evendo).

Site of the Former Nalewki Street

At the intersection with the former Nalewki Street, visitors encounter commemorative plaques and embedded tramlines marking what was once a vibrant Jewish neighborhood (Man vs Globe).

The Brushmaker’s Shop & Oneg Shabbat Archive

At 34 Świętojerska Street, near Krasiński Park, lies the site associated with the secret Oneg Shabbat Archive—a major Holocaust documentation project. Recent research shows the original shop’s remains are under Krasiński Park (CNET).

Parks and Green Spaces

Krasiński Park (Ogród Krasińskich)

Adjacent to Świętojerska, Krasiński Park provides a peaceful retreat with tree-lined paths and colorful flowerbeds. Recent renovations have enhanced the green belt along the street, offering a burst of color and a welcoming atmosphere (WhiteMad).

Hours: Open daily, 6:00–22:00.
Accessibility: Paved, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Walking and Cycling Routes

Świętojerska connects to pedestrian and bike paths, making it ideal for self-guided walking or cycling tours through New Town and the Old Town (The Broke Backpacker).

Świętojerska Street showcases a thoughtful mix of reconstructed historicism and modern architecture, including civic institutions like the Supreme Court and Mazovia Province headquarters (Plus3Architekci). The street’s layout encourages exploration, with open courtyards and public squares fostering community interaction (EIB).

The area is lively with small businesses, cafés, and cultural venues, serving both residents and visitors. It also regularly hosts citywide commemorative events and outdoor exhibitions, such as the “There Was a Wall” campaign (1943.pl).

Architectural Features

Remnants of Pre-War Warsaw: Embedded tramlines and historic photos along Świętojerska recall its vibrant pre-war community (Man vs Globe).
Modern Interventions: Recent reconstructions have introduced colorful landscaping and improved accessibility, blending the street’s historical memory with contemporary design (WhiteMad).

Cultural and Artistic Impressions

Świętojerska Street is not only a corridor of remembrance but also a hub for artistic expression. Public art installations, street performances, and cultural festivals bring the area to life. The Chopin Piano Benches, for example, invite visitors to interact with Warsaw’s musical heritage (Rachelirl.com). Temporary exhibitions and community events often use the street as a canvas for dialogue about the city’s past and future (GoTravelTipster).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there entrance fees to visit Świętojerska Street?
A: No, the street is public and free to access at all times.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Spring through early autumn offers the most pleasant weather. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, with options focusing on Jewish heritage, WWII history, and Warsaw’s urban evolution.

Q: Is the street wheelchair accessible?
A: Most of the street and adjacent parks are accessible, though some areas have cobblestones.

Q: How do I reach Świętojerska Street by public transport?
A: Use Metro Line 1 (Ratusz Arsenał), tram lines 4, 10, 22, or bus lines 180, 222.

Q: What are the hours for Krasiński Park?
A: The park is open daily from 6:00 to 22:00.

Plan Your Visit and Explore More

To enrich your journey, consider downloading the Audiala app for immersive audio guides and interactive maps. Plan your route to include the POLIN Museum, Warsaw Old Town, and other nearby sites for a comprehensive experience. Stay updated on events and tours through Warsaw’s official tourism channels.

Summary Table: Quick Facts

Feature	Details
Length	~600 meters
Accessibility	Pedestrian-friendly, wheelchair accessible
Nearest Metro	Ratusz Arsenał (M1)
Key Sights	Krasiński Palace, Warsaw Ghetto markers, artisan shops
Best Visiting Time	Spring–autumn for events and pleasant weather
Safety	Generally safe; standard urban precautions advised
Language	Polish (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
Payment	Cards accepted; carry cash for small purchases
Tours	Available via Cityrama and local operators
Accommodation	Wide range in Old/New Town vicinity

Summary & Recommendations

Świętojerska Street embodies Warsaw’s enduring spirit, bridging medieval foundations, noble grandeur, wartime tragedy, and dynamic renewal. Its blend of historical landmarks, green spaces, and modern urban design offers both reflection and discovery. Accessibility, proximity to key attractions like the POLIN Museum, and the availability of guided tours ensure a rewarding visit for all. Engage with commemorative events and utilize digital tools such as the Audiala app for a deeper, more interactive experience. Visiting Świętojerska Street is not only a journey through Warsaw’s past but an invitation to become part of its living story (POLIN Museum; Warsaw Ghetto Museum; Audiala).