In November 2023, the authorities of the City of Warsaw undertook the resumption of the long-awaited renovation of the Congress Hall, one of the most recognisable spaces in the Palace of Culture and Science. After years of hiatus, thanks to the cooperation with the Mazovian Provincial Conservator of Monuments, the renovation work has restarted, with a planned completion in 2026.
The implementation of the investment, which is worth over PLN 393 million, was entrusted to a consortium consisting of the companies Adamietz Warszawa Sp. z o.o., based in Warsaw, and Adamietz Sp. z o.o., based in Strzelce Opolskie. The aim of the project is not only to renovate the historic Congress Hall, but also to modernise it according to the latest technical and safety standards. After renovation, the Congress Hall is to become a multifunctional facility, equipped with modern technical, sanitary, conference and catering facilities. The investment will include a comprehensive modernisation of the entire facility, including the installation of state-of-the-art electro-acoustic infrastructure. The work will also take into account the adaptation of the building to current fire and sanitary regulations and the reconstruction in terms of accessibility for people with disabilities, all in accordance with the requirements of the conservation officer.
As part of the modernisation, the auditorium will be equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, stage mechanics and lighting systems. New security systems will also be installed and the number of seats will be increased to 2,600, with the highest standard of comfort. In addition, the refurbishment will include the installation of additional lifts, the modernisation of attics and basements and an increase in the number of toilets. The renovation of the Congress Hall is not only about renewing the historic interior, but also about enhancing it with modern solutions. Once completed, the hall will be able to host events of the highest standard, such as concerts, theatre and ballet performances, multimedia shows and conferences. Spaces adjacent to the auditorium, such as backstage areas, will be adapted for exhibitions and smaller multimedia events.
The Congress Hall in the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw, built between 1952 and 1955, has retained its original interior design and furnishings, mainly in the Socialist Realist style, although some art historians also see elements of art déco. Over the years it has witnessed numerous political and cultural events. During the communist era, it was the venue for conventions of the Polish United Workers’ Party (PZPR) and other ceremonial party events, as well as a meeting place for political organisations. At the same time, it also hosted concerts and world-class artistic events. In 1967, The Rolling Stones played here, which was one of the first concerts by a Western music group behind the Iron Curtain.
The Congress Hall was also the venue for many cyclical concerts, festivals, exhibitions and trade fairs, held in the adjacent foyer. In 2006, the final gala of the Miss World elections was held here, and in 2010, the ceremonial draw of the qualifying groups for the 2012 European football championships. In 2007, the Palace of Culture, together with the Congress Hall, was entered in the register of monuments. This decision was motivated, among other things, by the planned conversion of the hall into a musical theatre, which could have resulted in the destruction of the original decoration and furnishings.
The hall has been closed several times due to concerns about the stability of the structure, including in 2008. However, the venue reopened as early as 11 March that year. In 2014, a concert by Katie Melui was held there, one of the last before the long-lasting renovation began.
Source: Mazovian Voivodeship Historic Preservation Officer
Read also: Architecture in Poland | Renovation | Interiors | Socialist Realism | Warsaw
