Wilanów Palace, also known as Wilanowski Palace, is a royal palace located in the Wilanów district of Warsaw, Poland. It was originally built for King John III Sobieski in the late 17th century as a summer residence, and it has since become a prominent example of Polish Baroque architecture.
The palace was designed by Italian architect Agostino Locci and later expanded by other architects, including Johann Sigmund Deybel and Chrystian Piotr Aigner. Its exterior is decorated with sculptures, statues, and intricate reliefs, while the interior boasts lavish furnishings, artworks, and decorative elements.
Throughout its history, the palace has changed hands numerous times, serving as the residence of various Polish nobles and political figures, as well as being occupied by foreign powers during periods of war. It was extensively renovated and restored in the 20th century and is now open to the public as a museum.
Visitors to Wilanów Palace can explore its many rooms, including the King's apartments, the Queen's apartments, and the Chapel of St. Anne. The palace also houses a collection of art and historical artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and ceramics.
The palace is surrounded by extensive gardens and parks, which include formal French-style gardens, an English landscape park, and a rose garden. There is also a lake, a baroque-style orangery, and several other structures and monuments located within the palace complex.
Wilanów Palace is a popular tourist attraction and a cultural center, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and other events throughout the year. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and important landmarks in Poland, and it was designated a national monument in 1806.