The green and tranquil surroundings of Wilanów palace has for years served as a magnet for those needing to escape the bustle of the city to take stock, yet not prepared to abandon the luxury of remaining close to the centre of the city. Detached and semi-detached villas prevail, interspersed with intimate apartment developments. Its abundance of trees and beautifully tended gardens are soothing to the eye, giving the impression of a luxury summer residence.

The small local streets are free from constant traffic. The proximity of the park and recreational areas lends itself to a restful and serene ambience, a peaceful atmosphere that can be enjoyed every day.

But the residents of Wilanów also have easy access to the city centre. Using one of the many buses or a car the centre of Warsaw can be reached in under 20 minutes.

Wilanów is a district that is friendly to its residents. There are many schools in close proximity, including the American and German schools, kindergartens and medical centres. It is also an ideal area to go shopping or for after-hours coffee in one of its intimate cafes.

The intimate nature of the area and its proximity to the city centre have made Wilanów the most sought-after residential location in the capital.

History

The magnificence of the former village of Milanowo, today's Wilanów, dates back to its change of owner in the 17th century. In 1677 the newly crowned King Jan III Sobieski purchased the village with the intention of turning it into his country residence. An existing stately home was expanded into a magnificent palace, a task involving the most renowned architects of the time.

After the death of Sobieski the Wilanów palace became the residence of Poland's most famous landed gentry - the Sieniawski, Czartoryski, Lubomirski, Potocki and Branicki families.

At the outset of the 19th century it became one of Poland's first public museums and the first village school. In 1890 Wilanów saw the launch of a horse-drawn railway, converted to steam power only two years later, which ran from Plac Unii Lubelskiej through Wilanów and onto Piaseczno. Today the historical railway station houses the local post office.

In 1945 the Wilanów palace became the property of the state and was turned into a museum.

Today the district of Wilanów occupies an area of over 3,500 hectares and is home to 12,000 people. In spite of its proximity to the city centre, the district has maintained its characteristic intimacy.

Culture

The historical palace and gardens of Wilanów are not only an attraction for tourists. It also draws the residents of Warsaw, who like to visit Baroque palace and relax in the beautifully preserved royal gardens.

Each year the Royal Summer Concerts and the International Summer Academy of Old Music bring both young musicians and established virtuosos from around the world to Wilanów.

Wilanów is also home to the world's first Poster Museum, opened in 1968, which hosts the bi-annual International Poster Biennale.

Each year the district plays host to celebrations of the anniversary of Jan III Sobieski's victory at the battle of Vienna, attracting crowds from the entire city with concert and sports events.

Recreation

The beautiful landscapes of southern Warsaw encourage active leisure pursuits. They are ideal for walking and cycling outings. One of the most popular cycling routes leads to the Powsin recreational centre. On sunny days its ample grounds attract the local residents in search of active leisure in friendly surroundings, which have something to offer visitors of all ages. There are play areas and a swimming pool for children, cafes and restaurants for adults, as well as playing fields and the expansive terrain of Kabaty forest. The nearby Polish Science Academy (PAN) botanical gardens are home to some 5,000 varieties of plants on a 40-hectare site.

Other attractive sites for leisure and recreation include the Morysin Preserve, the natural surroundings of the Vistula river, the Powsinkowskie lake and its vicinity and the health spas of Konstancin.

For those in pursuit of active leisure there are also numerous football pitches and tennis courts, as well as golfing facilities, boating lakes and places to relax while fishing or horse riding amid beautiful landscapes.