Palace of Culture and Science

Warsaw, Poland

The Palace of Culture and Science is the tallest building in Poland and the eighth tallest building in the European Union. It is 231 metres tall, which includes a 43-metre high spire.

The building was originally known as the Joseph Stalin Palace of Culture and Science, but in the wake of destalinization the dedication to Stalin was revoked. The building was conceived as a 'gift from the Soviet people to the Polish nation', and was completed in 1955. The structure was built in three years according to the design of the Soviet architect Lev Rudnev. Architecturally, it is a mix of Stalinist architecture, also known as Socialist Classicism, and Polish historicism inspired by American art deco skyscrapers. Currently it is the headquarters of many companies and public institutions, such as cinemas, theaters, libraries, sports clubs, universities, scientific institutions and authorities of the Polish Academy of Sciences.

The tower was constructed, using Soviet plans, almost entirely by 3500 workers from the Soviet Union, of whom 16 died in accidents during the construction.

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Address

plac Defilad 1, Warsaw, Poland
See all sites in Warsaw

Details

Founded: 1952-1955
Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in Poland

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Joe Macpherson (4 months ago)
Unmissable striking building. Saw it upon exiting the central train station. It's one of the most communist Soviet buildings I've ever seen. Nice square in front to get some pictures
Oliver Liebmann (5 months ago)
For me it’s a must visit place in Warszawa. You can spend there as much time as you want (only until it’s closing of course). It gets quite cold when it’s windy. So you better bring some warmer clothes and some gloves when it’s colder. You can see the whole city in every direction. It’s definitely worth visiting it during sunset and staying until it’s getting dark.
Gordon Mehmert (5 months ago)
Great place for a wonderful view over all of Warsaw. Recommended for sunny days and days with good weather. The view is breathtaking and you can take hours to spot the different situations happening around the palace.
Grace L (5 months ago)
We know there is an observation deck in that building but it took us some time to find the right entrance, because it’s huge alongside with other buildings which have the same design. Very Soviet Union style like the way we saw on movies. They called it viewing terrace, it’s on 30th floor. Good panoramic view of Warsaw. Skyscrapers, old town etc. but we didn’t go on the clearest day. Locals seem to love going there too
Svitozar Khalak (5 months ago)
Very beautiful sightseeing point on Warsaw. From the top you wont see historical part of the city but you will see skyscrapers of the city and surrounding area. Incredibly long time on Sunday to get to the top due to many people…30-60 min waiting. Price is 25 zloty per person.
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