The people of Warsaw have decided. An art installation that for years conveyed important social values will return to the city landscape. As part of this year’s edition of the Civic Budget, the winning project was to bring the famous rainbow back to the city centre at Plac Zbawiciela. The initiative was strongly supported by residents, who voted in favour of restoring the symbol of openness and equality in public space. For many, this is a very important moment.
The rainbow on Plac Zbawiciela: the return of a significant symbol
The rainbow installation by Julita Wójcik was present at Zbawiciela Square between 2012 and 2015, during which time it gained recognition both in Poland and abroad. For many, it became a symbol of support for the LGBTQIA community, a sign of tolerance and acceptance. Unfortunately, the installation has also become a target for vandals. In its short history, it has been set on fire several times. The most notorious fire took place on 11 November 2013, during the Independence March. The acts of vandalism reverberated in the national and international media. Now, a project called ‘New Rainbow at Zbawiciela Square’ has been selected by residents in a vote, proving that there is still a need for such a place in the centre of Warsaw.
A voice for openness
The originators of the project emphasise that the new installation is to once again become an expression of acceptance and diversity. Its presence is intended as a reminder that the city should be a welcoming space for all. The organisers also point out that the previous version of the installation was one of the most recognisable symbols of equality in the world. Among those involved in the initiative was Małgorzata Büthner-Zawadzka, who had already pointed out the symbolic importance of this space. In her opinion, a square without a rainbow is an incomplete place, deprived of the sign that gave it character and an emotional dimension. The presence of the installation could make Saviour Square a space that is more open, dynamic and consistent with contemporary social values.
The rainbow in Saviour Square and the road to realisation
Once the results of the vote have been announced, preparatory work will begin. The new version of the installation is to be made of durable materials, resistant to weather and attempts at destruction, including fire. In addition, rainbow flags will be flown in all districts on the streets of the capital in June 2026. The city will allocate PLN 700,000 for the entire project. The residents’ decision has shown that Warsaw is ready to create a common space that reflects social sensitivity and the need for dialogue and acceptance.
Loading ...Source: Civic Budget in Warsaw, nowawarszawa.pl
Read also: Warsaw | Culture | Art | Curiosities | Art installation | whiteMAD on Instagram
