The “Gruba Kaśka” water tower in Warsaw is one of the capital’s most fascinating examples of classical architecture. Since last summer, this late 18th-century monument has been undergoing extensive restoration work, as it had been suffering from progressive material deterioration, damage caused by vehicles and the effects of vandalism.
“Gruba Kaśka” – an 18th-century rotunda
“Gruba Kaśka” was built between 1783 and 1787 as a casing for a municipal well and an important feature of the former Tłomackie Square. The circular pavilion quickly became one of the distinguishing features of this part of Warsaw. The nickname given by the city’s residents most likely referred to the compact, cylindrical shape of the structure. The water tower survived the Second World War with moderate damage, much less severe than that sustained by the surrounding buildings. The structure was rebuilt in 1947, and a few years later its surroundings were completely modernised. When the new W-Z Route was being laid out, the historic well found itself situated between the carriageways of this busy thoroughfare.
The effects of traffic and the passage of time
The last major renovation took place in 2004. Since then, the building has been constantly subjected to intense vibrations caused by tram and car traffic. Exhaust fumes, damp and pollution settling on the façade have also had a negative impact. Cracks, patches of missing plaster and signs of damage appeared on the walls. The sandstone plinth and cornices bore traces of previous repairs, and some of the stone sections had begun to crumble where they met the copper roof covering. The sheet metal itself had become deformed and was no longer watertight. However, the most alarming aspect was the condition of the wooden beams securing the well opening. The elements were rotten and decayed, and therefore required urgent replacement.
Conservation carried out in stages
The Municipal Roads Authority is responsible for the works, having selected a contractor last year. The historic water tower has been covered with scaffolding, and the work is being carried out in stages due to the specific nature of the conservation and the difficult working conditions in the middle of a busy road. So far, work has included the dismantling of selected elements and necessary demolition. Scaffolding has also been erected, enabling work to begin on the roof and interior of the rotunda. Conservators are cleaning the wooden parts of the roof truss, removing traces of corrosion, disinfecting the structure and repairing damage to the material.
“Gruba Kaśka” – saving one of Warsaw’s landmarks
In addition, work is underway to protect the roof against leaks. Specialists are sealing the roofing and reinforcing the elements most exposed to moisture. The restoration of details and the refurbishment of the façade, which bears the marks of years of damage, are also of considerable importance. The renovation aims to restore the building to its former appearance and safeguard it for the future. It is worth doing this because “Gruba Kaśka” is one of the few relics of 18th-century Warsaw to have survived the catastrophe of the war and the city’s subsequent transformations.
source:ZDM Warsaw
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