The Royal Castle in Warsaw served as the official residence of the Polish monarchs.
The Royal Castle in Warsaw’s Old Town and constructed in 1598. In actual fact, it dates back to the 14th century when a tower and wooden buildings stood there.
Over the years the castle expanded many times. Major modifications were done by Poland’s last King, Stanislaw August Poniatowski, after he came to power in 1764. Several things changed inside the castle and he also built the south wing during this time.
It formerly served as the official residence for the Polish monarchs. It is located in the Castle Square, at the entrance of the Old Town.
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Reconstruction of the Royal Castle.
The castle suffered during World War II. German troops destroyed it when they invaded Poland and then under Hitler’s orders, blown up. The castle as we know it today is a replica of the original castle.
In the 1970’s reconstruction to the castle started to take place and completed in 1974. Today they use the castle for ceremonial purposes and to view original artworks. It is also part of Poland’s National Museum. They hid most of the artworks in basements during the war. There they remained hidden and safe from the German troops.
Inside the Royal Castle and what can be seen.
The Castle has more than 300 rooms and has been reconstructed in the 17th-century style. We took a tour during our last visit to Warsaw. It was a long wait to get inside and I suggest you go early. The rooms are fitted with splendid artworks some which have been hidden during World War II.
The Throne room is impressive and dates back to Stanislaw August Poniatowski – decorated in a shining red and gold. The throne stands in the middle.
The Knight’s Room, furnished under Stanislaw August Poniatowski with walls covered in huge oil paintings. In the middle of the room is the Statue of Chronos.
Permanently on display are exhibits like tapestries, a porcelain collection, vases, glassware, and sculptures. The wood carved dressers and cabinets are to admire.
The Royal Castle has more than 300 rooms.
Like I have mentioned before the Castle has more than 300 rooms. All the rooms were restored to its original state before the war. The Jagiellonian room, for example, was once the home to Augustus III and it houses a number of family portraits. He was the last King of Poland.
Where to find the Castle and opening hours.
The Royal Castle is easy to find and situated in the Old Town at the Plac Zamkowy. The castle can be reached by bus or tram. If you intend to use the metro, switch to bus or tram at Ratusz Arsenal heading in direction Praga and get off at the next stop.
Bus 125, 170, 190, 307, 512 or
Tram 13, 23, 26, 32.
Opening hours depend on the time of year.
Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-4pm
Sunday: 11am-4pm
Monday: closed
Entrance is free on Sunday. For more information about Warsaw and places to visit, click here.
