Warsaw - Pilsudski Square, Poland
This time we visit Warsaw, the capital of Poland. We want to walk the Krakowskie Przedmieście Street to the Old Town of Warsaw, but this route we will show in subsequent videos. Currently we stop for a moment at Pilsudski Square and see what's interesting nearby.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Newcomer immediately catches his eye at the former Victoria Hotel (now Sofitel), built in the years 1974-1976 (A; GPS: 52.239892, 21.013253). At the western edge of the square you can find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (B; GPS: 52.240963, 21.011287). It's built of three retained arcades of the Saxon Palace which was destroyed by Germans in December 1944. There are some plans to reconstruct the Saxon Palace together with formerly buildings and create rows of trees covering architecturally mismatched hotel buildings. On November 11, 2018, the Polish President formally and publicly declared the reconstruction of the Saxon Palace.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a hallowed national shrine, dedicated to all Polish soldiers who have given their lives for their country. An eternal flame burns here, guarded by a ceremonial honor guard that changes every hour, on the hour, every day of the year. This solemn tradition is a powerful and moving sight that draws visitors and locals alike, serving as a constant reminder of the nation's sacrifices and resilience.
The Saxon Garden
On the opposite side of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier you can find the Saxon Garden - the city park, founded at the turn of the seventeenth and eighteenth century by king Augustus II the Strong as a palace garden. In the garden you can enjoy the Great Fountain, built in 1853 (C; GPS: 52.240791, 21.010235), and the sundial from 1863, located right behind the fountain. In the garden there are also 21 baroque statues of muses and the virtues from the eighteenth century.
As one of the first public parks in the world, the Saxon Garden holds a special place in Warsaw’s history. It was opened to the public in 1727, a gesture of King Augustus II to provide a space for his subjects to relax and enjoy nature. The park’s well-maintained alleys, lush greenery, and beautiful sculptures make it a perfect urban oasis, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The blend of formal garden design and natural elements creates a serene and historically rich environment.
The monument of Jozef Pilsudski
Because the patron of the square is Jozef Pilsudski (1867-1935) - independence activist, the head of state and the Polish Marshal, there is also his monument nearby (D; GPS: 52.241400, 21.014127). It is placed on the opposite side of the square and is looking from afar at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The monument honors one of the most revered figures in modern Polish history, who played a crucial role in leading the nation to regain its independence in 1918 after 123 years of partitions. The monument's imposing presence and its direct line of sight to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier create a powerful symbolic relationship, linking the leader who forged the modern state with the soldiers who defended it. This spot is a focal point for national ceremonies and a place of pilgrimage for Poles.
The Grand Theatre
Near the square you can see, among others, the "Zachęta" - National Gallery of Art (E; GPS: 52.239469, 21.011549) and the Church of the Holy Trinity (F; GPS: 52.238664, 21.011408). On the opposite side is located the Grand Theatre - the seat of Polish National Opera (G; GPS: 52.243256, 21.010288). It was built in 1825-1833. In September 1939 was bombed and destroyed, and then was finally rebuilt in 1965.
The Grand Theatre is a dominant architectural landmark and a cornerstone of Polish culture. Its neoclassical facade is one of the largest in Europe. The building houses not only the National Opera but also the National Ballet and the Theatre Academy, making it a vibrant hub for the performing arts. The Zachęta Gallery is a leading institution for contemporary art in Poland, hosting dynamic exhibitions that showcase both Polish and international artists, making the area a key destination for art lovers.
Gastronomy and Relaxation
Piłsudski Square and its surroundings offer a variety of dining and relaxation options. The Sofitel hotel has its own restaurants and a bar, providing a more upscale dining experience. For those looking for a quick bite or a coffee, there are numerous cafes and bistros in the nearby streets, offering a mix of Polish and international cuisine.
After exploring the monuments and gardens, you can unwind in one of the elegant cafes on nearby streets like Mazowiecka or just find a bench in the Saxon Garden to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. These places provide a perfect opportunity to recharge before continuing your walk towards the city's historic center.
In the next episode we will walk the beautiful Krakowskie Przedmiescie street.
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