Szlenkier Palace is one of Warsaw’s most unique monuments. It is located at pl. Jana Henryka Dąbrowskiego 6 and currently serves as the seat of the Embassy of the Italian Republic. The building was entered in the register of monuments in 1965. It is an exceptional example of historicising architecture, which stood out against the background of Warsaw buildings of the late 19th century.
Construction of the palace began in 1881 and was completed two years later. The project was initiated by Karol Jan Szlenkier (Schlenker), who wished to build for himself and his family a comfortable residence located in the city centre. He was a representative of a wealthy merchant family with German roots, who arrived in Warsaw from the Black Forest in the 17th century. The design of the building was selected through a competition announced in 1880, in which the most prominent architects of the time participated. Ultimately, the design by Witold Lancie was chosen, and the palace was built on Plac Zielona (now Dąbrowskiego).
The building in 2007. Photo: Isee1, CC BY 2.5 PL, via Wikimedia Commons
The facade of the edifice was inspired by the Italian Palazzo Davia Bargellini in Bologna. The ground floor was decorated with strong rustication, and the windows and balcony doors were modelled on the work of Sebastian Serlio, the famous Renaissance architect. Characteristic elements were the atlantes supporting the balcony and figures symbolising industry and commerce. Outbuildings were erected to the rear of the building.
The palace in 1927 and 2024. Source: NAC – National Digital Archive www.nac.gov.pl/ and whiteMAD/Mateusz Markowski
The palace’s interiors were designed with splendour, making it one of Warsaw’s most magnificent residences, comparable only to Kronenberg’s palace, which we wrote about HERE. The representative staircase made of white marble with Ionic columns, as well as the former passage hallway, have been preserved to this day. Karol Jan Szlenkier collected numerous works of art in the palace, including paintings by Wojciech Gerson and sculptures depicting mythological figures.
After the end of the First World War, the lavish palace, burdened by a high mortgage, became too much of a burden for the family, who decided to sell it. The Italian diplomatic mission took an interest in the building, and eventually in 1922 the edifice was transformed into its headquarters. During the Second World War, the palace suffered severe damage, particularly from bombing in 1939 and during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944. The façade on the side of Dąbrowskiego Square and the roof suffered the most damage, and the interiors were looted. Despite the damage, the palace survived for the sake of the Germans’ former ally Italy.
The building in 1938 and 2024. Source: NAC – National Digital Archive www.nac.gov.pl/ and whiteMAD/Mateusz Markowski
After the war, renovation of the building began, part of which was completed in 1948, and further work continued in the 1950s. The front façade was only partially reconstructed, at which time many of the original elements, such as the atlantes and the original rustication, were abandoned. The interiors received new stucco decoration in the spirit of classicism, made by Italian craftsmen.
The Szlenkiers’ Palace during the occupation and today. Source: State Archive in Warsaw and whiteMAD/Mateusz Markowski
Unfortunately, the current state of the palace leaves much to be desired. The building is in dire need of renovation, with clear evidence of falling plaster, peeling paint on the façade, damaged sculptures and windows and damp walls. Protective nets and scaffolding have been installed on the unstable attic to ensure safety, but the actual work has not yet started. As the Italian ambassador to Poland, Luca Franchetti Pardo, assured the Italian government earlier this year, the renovation of the building is a priority for him.
The building in 1955 and 2024. Source: National Archives in Warsaw and whiteMAD/Mateusz Markowski
The Szlenkiers’ Palace is an important part of Warsaw’s architectural heritage that testifies to the richness and craftsmanship of the 19th century era. Despite numerous destructions and subsequent simplifications, the preserved elements of the interior and façade are still impressive. However, it requires urgent conservation work to restore it to its former glory and ensure the safety of users and passers-by. Its historical and artistic value deserves special care and attention.
Source: topo-grafie.uw.edu.pl, polskiezabytki . pl, warszawa.wyborcza.pl
Read also: Palace | Warsaw | Architecture in Poland | Curiosities | whiteMAD on Instagram
