Wroclaw Palace is a beautiful Baroque royal palace that has been transformed into the main branch of the Wroclaw City Museum. Examine artifacts dating back as far as the Middles Ages, explore recreated royal chambers and stroll through a charming Baroque garden.
Originally constructed in 1717, the palace was acquired by Frederick the Great of Prussia in 1750. It was transformed into a royal residence, continuing to serve as the home of Prussian kings of the Hohenzollern dynasty until the 20th century. The palace was damaged during World War II and the remaining structure was converted into the Wrocław City Museum in 2008. Don’t miss the elegant Baroque gardens found south of the palace, which have been restored in the French formal style.
Check out the 1000 Years of Wrocław exhibition, which is housed in the central and eastern wings of the palace. This interactive exhibition examines the history of the LowerSilesian capital from the Middle Ages through to the present day.
Head to the palace’s west wing to see the Gallery of Art in Wroclaw exhibition. This permanent exhibition displays artistic works related to Wroclaw from the 19th century through to the post-war era. With styles ranging from post-romantic to expressionist, the gallery reflects the evolution of the city’s art scene over more than a century. Look for works by prominent artists, including Adolf Dressler, Max Wislicenus, Maria Dawska and Józef Hałas.
Wander through the palace’s six royal apartments, which have been painstakingly recreated with period furnishings and artwork to resemble their appearance during the time of the Prussian kings. Among the other highlights is the Beyersdorf Room, home to a number of interesting allegorical paintings and blue Dutch tiles dating back to the 17th century.
Wroclaw Palace is open Tuesday to Sunday. Take the tram or bus to the southern area of the city’s Old Town, where the palace is located. Admission to the permanent exhibitions is free, but there are charges for the temporary exhibitions as well as for guided tours in English.
