Park Decjusza

ul. Królowej Jadwigi more than a year ago

This 10 hectare park in Wola Justowska is one of the oldest in Kraków. Dating back to 1535, the park was established at the same time as the Villa Decius (Willa Decjusza) - which was originally a manor house built for Justus Ludwik Decjusz, the secretary to King Zygmunt I Stary (Sigismund I the Old). Decjusz owned the entire area of Wola Justowska, and his mansion was updated many times over the centuries as it changed hands. Today it is a keen example of Renaissance architecture and its interiors - which host a fine collection of paintings and furniture from the 19th century - can be toured by visitors on certain days of the week, and an upscale restaurant in the cellars is open every day during the spring and summer. Located in the far southern side of the park, Villa Decius is also a cultural centre of the City of Kraków, hosting many educational programmes, artistic events and conferences.

Villa Decius - a perfect example of Renaissance-era suburban architecture.

Although most of the surrounding park's 16th century trees were destroyed during World War I, some have survived and the leafy park is generally a lovely place to spend time, with a modern playground making it more popular than ever before. Another feature of the park is the numerous monuments by Bronisław Chromy, whose art gallery occupies the park's former communist-era band shell. You might recognise Chromy's work - he designed the Wawel Dragon and many other monuments in the centre, and here you'll find monuments dedicated to Piwnica Pod Baranami, Chopin, Wyspiański and more.