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An awkward gift – the Palace of Culture and Science

📖 Intro

pkin-warsaw

The Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw is a contentious landmark. On one hand, it stands as an iconic architectural presence, housing museums, theaters, exhibition spaces, a pool, and even a cinema. On the other hand, it serves as a stark reminder of Poland’s Soviet subjugation. Despite calls for its removal by influential figures in Polish culture, the palace was formally designated a historical monument in 2007. The story behind its existence and the emotions it continues to stir are worth exploring.

🎁 Podarek (a gift)

Situated in the very center of the city at 1 Parade Square, the Joseph Stalin Palace of Culture and Science emerged from the vision of its notorious namesake. As the leader of the USSR, Stalin was among the most ruthless dictators globally. Following World War II, Poland found itself entirely under Soviet sway. During the era often termed “deep Stalinism” an agreement was signed in 1952 between the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) and the Socialist Union of Soviet Republics (USSR) to construct a building that would serve as a “gift from the Soviet nations to the Polish people”.

pkpin sculptures

The Palace of Culture and Science, designed by Lev Rudnev, bears a striking resemblance to American Art Deco skyscrapers. It mirrors the Moscow skyscraper ensemble known as Stalin’s Seven Sisters. However, its construction came at a cost: numerous tenement houses in Warsaw were demolished to make way for this imposing structure, a city that had already suffered greatly during World War II.

The construction spanned approximately 3 years, from May 1, 1952, to July 21, 1955. It involved around 4,000 Polish workers and an equal number of Soviet workers. For the latter group, a special housing estate in the Bemowo-Jelonki district of Warsaw was erected. These barracks, constructed from ready-made wooden houses, were fully functional, complete with their own cinema, cafeteria, and even a swimming pool—aptly named “Przyjaźń” (which means “Friendship” in Polish). Following the completion of the project, the housing estate was handed over to the Ministry of Higher Education, which repurposed it as student dormitories.

Regrettably, the construction of the Palace of Culture and Science (PKiN) was far from being a secure work environment. A staggering 16 individuals lost their lives due to work-related incidents. When juxtaposed with comparable projects across the ocean—such as the American Empire State Building (where 5 fatalities occurred) or the Chrysler Building (where no lives were lost)—this figure is undeniably alarming

The Palace of Culture and Science (PKiN) was officially opened on July 21, 1955. Interestingly, on the same day, the Soviet government signed a protocol transferring the building to the Polish government. This strategic timing allowed the celebration of Poland’s most significant national holiday during the PRL era—the National Rebirth of Poland Day—which was annually observed on July 22. That day commemorated the announcement of the Manifesto of the Polish Committee for National Liberation from 1944, declaring, among other things, the National Council of Poland as the sole legitimate authority. Hence, power in Poland was assumed by a government de facto established in Moscow and subservient to Stalin.

🏛  Architecture

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The Palace, towering at 237 meters (778’) (including its spire), was one of the tallest buildings in Poland for many years. It serves as an exemplar of Socialist Realist architecture, which, in its core principles, emphasized the power and strength of the state—representing the people—rather than focusing on beauty and elegance. Initially, the building had a light-colored sandstone facade, which gradually turned gray over time. It is adorned with monumental bas-reliefs made from limestone, sandstone, marble, and granite. In front of the main entrance, you’ll find two sculptures created by Polish artists. These geometrically shaped monuments depict Nicolaus Copernicus and Adam Mickiewicz. Interestingly, the original plan was for Copernicus to be accompanied by Joseph Stalin. The Russians crafted 20 sculptures in niches and 8 seated figures, along with a hidden relief beneath the main portico.

The Palace boasts 42 floors, and at a height of 114 meters (374’0.2”) (equivalent to the XXX floor), there’s an open, publicly accessible observation terrace accessible via an elevator in just 19 seconds. In 2000, the Palace revealed Europe’s second-largest clock, featuring four 6.3-meter (20’8”) dials. Named the Millennium Clock, a replica graces the Palace lobby.

The total surface area spans 110,000 square meters (1.18 million square feet), housing over three thousand rooms. Among them are museums, theaters, a cinema, the Congress Hall, Youth Palace, and the Warsaw City Council. Critics argue that the Palace’s outdated design consumes as much electricity monthly as a city of 30,000 inhabitants

📝 Prolog

pkpin-warsaw-viewThe Palace of Culture and Science, commonly referred to as “Pekin” (an abbreviation of PKiN), has stood for nearly 70 years, becoming an enduring symbol of the city throughout this time. Regardless of the opinions of its critics or supporters, it remains a historical landmark—a testament to its era—and one of the few structures preserved in its entirety to this day. Many historians emphasize that its interiors showcase high-quality works by artists and sculptors from bygone times. These spaces are adorned with paintings, furniture, and sculptures by prominent Polish artists.

While its demolition might seem tempting in today’s context, it would represent a significant loss. Despite serving as a reminder of the challenging communist era in Poland, the Palace symbolizes Soviet architecture. However, it no longer dominates the cityscape, as the modern architecture of contemporary skyscrapers increasingly obscures its presence.

✔ Planner

In the Palace of Culture and Science (PKiN), you’ll find:

🎫 Tickets online & ⏰ Open Hours
Palace of Culture and Science
Tuesday
10:00 AM – 08:00 PM
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