Warsaw Old Town Market Place
Mazowieckie
Warsaw Old Town Market Place is the central square and oldest part of Warsaw's Old Town, established in the late 13th century alongside the city's founding. It served as the administrative and commercial hub, hosting guild meetings, fairs, and public events including executions. Originally surrounded by Gothic-style buildings, the square was rebuilt in late Renaissance and Baroque styles following a major fire in 1607. The prominent town hall, adorned with mannerist architectural features and a bulbous spire, was a key landmark until its demolition in 1817. The square suffered extensive destruction during WWII, especially after the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, but was carefully reconstructed between 1948 and 1953 to resemble its 17th-century appearance. Today, it is divided into four sides named after 18th-century Polish parliamentarians-Dekert, Barss, Kołłątaj, and Zakrzewski-each hosting significant museums and monuments. The bronze Warsaw Mermaid statue by Konstanty Hegel, installed in 1855, stands as a symbol of the city. The Market Place remains a vibrant tourist attraction with rich historical significance and architectural beauty.
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Tip: The best time to visit Warsaw Old Town Market Place is during spring and summer when outdoor cafes and street performances enliven the square. Purchasing tickets for museums located on the square, such as the Warsaw Historical Museum and Adam Mickiewicz Museum, in advance can save time. Visitors should explore the square's four distinct sides and enjoy guided tours to fully appreciate its history. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Early morning visits offer a quieter experience before the crowds arrive.
Interesting facts
- •The Warsaw Mermaid statue, created by Konstanty Hegel in 1855, is the city’s enduring symbol located in the Market Place.
- •The square was the site of public executions, including the hanging of Targowica Confederation leaders in 1794.
- •The original town hall, built before 1429, featured a bulbous spire typical of Warsaw mannerist architecture, similar to the Royal Castle.
- •The Market Place was almost completely destroyed after the 1944 Warsaw Uprising and was meticulously reconstructed in the early 1950s.
- •The four sides of the square are named after 18th-century Polish parliamentarians, reflecting its political history.
History
The Market Place was established at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries as part of the founding of Old Warsaw, serving as the city's administrative and commercial center.
A stone town hall with a tall tower was built in the 15th century but was demolished in 1817.
The square's buildings were originally Gothic, rebuilt in Renaissance and Baroque styles after a devastating fire in 1607.
During WWII, especially after the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, the area was heavily bombed and destroyed by German forces.
Reconstruction efforts from 1948 to 1953 restored the square to its 17th-century look, preserving original architectural elements where possible.
In 1965, the Market Place was officially registered as a historic urban monument.
Place Guide
Dekert's Side17th century
The north side of the square, named after Jan Dekert, houses the Warsaw Historical Museum. The entrance is located in a building known as 'The Negro' (Pod Murzynkiem), named after the traditional sign above its doorway. This side preserves many architectural details from the 17th century reconstruction.
Barss' Side17th century
The east side named after Barss features the Adam Mickiewicz Museum, dedicated to the renowned 19th-century Polish poet. The side was formerly known as the Eastern or Right side.
Kołłątaj's Side17th-18th century
The west side of the square, named after Hugo Kołłątaj, includes notable details such as a 16th-century statue of Saint Anne and the Venetian Lion. This side maintains the late-Baroque style from the early 18th century reconstruction.
Zakrzewski's Side17th century
The southern side, named after Zakrzewski, faces the Royal Castle and St. John's Cathedral. It was historically known as the Castle or Fourth side. This side includes a wall sundial and retains architectural elements from the 17th century.
The Warsaw Mermaid Statue1855
A bronze sculpture by Konstanty Hegel, installed in 1855, symbolizing the city of Warsaw. It is centrally located in the Market Place and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city.
