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29.09.2024

Between Warsaw and Łódź, near Łowicz and just 16 km from Hotel Santa Natura, there is the Museum in Nieborów and the picturesque Arkadia.

The Museum in Nieborów and Arkadia is a perfect idea for a day trip out of the city or an additional attraction during your stay at our resort.
The Museum in Nieborów and Arkadia was established in 1945 as part of the National Museum in Warsaw. It includes the Radziwiłł Palace with the garden in Nieborów and the Romantic Garden of Helena Radziwiłłowa in Arkadia.

The Palace Museum and Park in Nieborów

The palace in Nieborów, built at the end of the 17th century, was designed by Dutch architect Tylman of Gameren for primate Michał Radziejowski. Later, it became the property of the Radziwiłł family, who not only expanded it but also enriched it with excellent art collections. The Baroque-style residence, surrounded by a formal French-style garden and an extensive park, is an example of aristocratic elegance and architectural precision. The palace interiors are full of valuable works of art, furniture, and books, showcasing the rich lifestyle of the Polish aristocracy.

The park in Nieborów is an example of a French garden in the classical style, featuring characteristic geometric forms, symmetrical paths, and meticulously trimmed plants. The central point of the garden is an impressive lime tree avenue leading from the palace to the edges of the park. Sculptures found throughout the garden often depict mythological figures, which was popular during the Baroque era.

In the 19th century, under the care of Michał Piotr Radziwiłł, the palace and park flourished as a cultural and social center, hosting numerous receptions and gatherings of the social elite. Today, the park, as part of the museum complex, impresses both history enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility amidst nature. Regular cultural events are organized here, and beautifully maintained walking paths attract many tourists.

The Palace in Nieborów and Mr. Kleks' Academy


One of the most interesting chapters in the history of the Palace in Nieborów is its connection with Polish cinematography. The palace served as one of the filming locations for the cult children's film from 1983, Mr. Kleks' Academy, directed by Krzysztof Gradowski. The beautiful palace interiors provided the backdrop for the magical world of Mr. Kleks, a character who gained enormous popularity among young viewers.


The Romantic Garden in Arkadia

In the 1770s, the English garden style began to gain popularity in Poland, opposing the artificiality and regularity of Baroque gardens. It was characterized by free, romantic compositions often enriched with architectural elements referring to antiquity, the Middle Ages, or exoticism. One of the most famous examples of this style in Poland is the Romantic Garden in Arkadia, founded by Helena Radziwiłłowa in 1778.

Architect Szymon Bogumił Zug took part in designing Arkadia, supported by the princess, who was personally involved in the garden's development. Among the many buildings constructed in Arkadia, one of the most characteristic is the Aqueduct. Built in 1784, it served both an aesthetic and symbolic function, referring to ancient Rome. Integrated into the garden's landscape, the Aqueduct with its monumental arches added a specific, sentimental charm to the place.

The water in the garden, including that flowing through the Aqueduct, was an important element of the composition – it referred to ancient motifs and had symbolic meaning related to the eternal cycle of life. The Aqueduct, along with other structures like the Temple of Diana or the Sibyl's Grotto, is an example of the combination of art, nature, and symbolism that made the Arkadia garden a unique and meaningful place full of hidden meanings.

The Museum in Nieborów

The palace complex, which also serves as a museum, offers visitors a unique journey through the culture and art of the Polish aristocracy, especially the Radziwiłł family. The museum's collections include furniture, textiles, paintings, and a library encompassing works from the Middle Ages through the 19th century. The palace library is one of the most important places in the residence, and its collections are considered among the most valuable in Poland.

The museum also organizes numerous temporary exhibitions and cultural events promoting the historical heritage of Nieborów and Arkadia. Additionally, the museum frequently hosts seasonal events such as guided tours, art workshops, and lectures on Polish history.

Majolica Nieborów – Manufactory and Ceramics Shop

A true gem of Nieborów is the Majolica Nieborów manufactory, which has been producing hand-painted ceramics for over 140 years. The manufactory was founded in 1881 and continues the tradition of majolica – ceramics covered with colorful glaze, whose roots date back to the Renaissance. Majolica Nieborów's products are unique, and their distinctive patterns, inspired by both Polish and European art, impress with precision and colorfulness.

Visitors can tour the workshop and see the ceramics production process, from clay shaping to hand-decorating finished products. The manufactory also runs a shop where you can buy exceptional, handmade items. Each piece is not only a souvenir but also a symbol of the rich craftsmanship tradition nurtured in Nieborów for generations.

Summary

In summary, the Museum in Nieborów and Arkadia is a place that combines rich history, art, and nature. The Radziwiłł Palace in Nieborów and the Romantic Garden in Arkadia offer visitors unique experiences – from Baroque elegance to the sentimental charm of an English garden. An additional attraction is the Majolica Nieborów manufactory, where traditional ceramics have gained a modern dimension, attracting art lovers from around the world. It is an ideal place for a day trip or to complement a stay in nearby resorts, providing both aesthetic experiences and inspiration.