The Royal Baths Park amphitheatre, one of Warsaw’s most recognisable park buildings, is currently undergoing extensive renovation. The 18th-century, antique-inspired building had long been in need of preservation and conservation work. The current phase is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025.
Amphitheatre in the Royal Łazienki Park – architecture and antique inspiration
The amphitheatre was erected in 1785 as an earthen structure and rebuilt in stone a few years later to a design by Jan Chrystian Kamsetzer, an architect of Saxon origin who worked with King Stanisław August Poniatowski. Situated by the South Pond, the building has served a theatrical function from the beginning, and its form was reminiscent of romantic ruins. Its stage is located on an artificial island and surrounded by a composition of columns and fragments of architecture modelled on the Roman Forum, while the auditorium, in the form of a semicircle, seats up to 950 people. The entire set-up was inspired by the theatre at Herculaneum and exemplifies the sentimental style of the late 18th century. A particular highlight of the auditorium are sculptures depicting 16 playwrights, including Aeschylus, Euripides, Sophocles, Shakespeare, Molière and Racine. Alongside the classics, there are also images of Poles – Niemcewicz and Trembecki – who were honoured while they were still alive.
History of the Baths Amphitheatre
From the very beginning, the Amphitheatre was very popular with Varsovians. In the 19th century, despite the deteriorating technical condition of the building, performances and concerts were still held here, attracting hundreds of spectators. After it was taken over by the city in 1916, a major renovation was carried out, and in 1926 the original sculptures were replaced with copies. The building was not destroyed during the Second World War, making it one of the best-preserved monuments of the Royal Baths. Other buildings, such as the Palace on the Water, were less fortunate. In the following decades, the building was restored several times. In 2015, the auditorium, sculptural decorations and stage facilities were restored.
Renovation and maintenance of the Amphitheatre in 2024-2025
Due to its unique location on the water, it became necessary to carry out the renovation again. The first phase of work was completed in 2024 and included the island portion of the Amphitheatre, shoreline fortifications and restoration of historic vegetation. The stone steps at the Cascade Bridge were also restored. Work continues this year on the stage and auditorium. The sculptural decorations are currently being restored and the stage slab structure has been reinforced to make it more durable. The entire investment costs PLN 6.845 million and is entirely funded by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage.
The amphitheatre in Lazienki Park today and in the future
Dr Marianna Otmianowska, director of the Royal Łazienki Museum, emphasises that the location of the facility is both its greatest asset and a challenge. Contact with water accelerates the deterioration of materials, so maintenance must be carried out regularly and with great attention to detail. Once the work is completed, the Amphitheatre in the Royal Baths Park will regain its lost splendour and continue its function as an architectural gem of the park and an important venue for cultural events. Since the 18th century, it has been a stage for plays, concerts and outdoor performances.
Source: lazienki-krolewskie.pl
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