Kościelce Palace

The Palace in Kościelec is a historic, eclectic building that originally served as the residence of the von Kreutz family and, since 2017, has functioned as the High School of Fine Arts. Listed in the register of historical monuments on September 16, 1968, the palace boasts a rich history dating back to the 1840s, when Count Aleksander Henryk von Kreutz commissioned architect Henryk Marconi to prepare designs, though these were never realized. The final construction took place between 1887 and 1889 under the direction of architects Józef Benedyktynowicz Chrzanowski and Eugeniusz Oraczewski, with interior decorations by the painter August Bertelmann. After World War I, the palace became state property, and during the interwar period, it served various functions, including as an agricultural experimental station and the headquarters of the Łódź Agricultural Chamber. During World War II, it was used by the Gestapo. After the war, the palace was successively occupied by various institutions. In the 1990s, renovation and reconstruction efforts began, including roof replacement and tower reconstruction. Architecturally, the palace is built on a nearly rectangular plan and features a brick masonry structure with a domed spire. It is adorned with numerous sculptural elements, such as child figures on the tower, personifications of the elements, and elevations crowned with an openwork tower. The interior retains a neo-baroque staircase and various rooms that have been altered over time due to renovations. The palace is surrounded by picturesque parks, including northern and southern sections connected by a bridge, forming a landscape park spanning over 20 hectares. The park features preserved artificial castle ruins, a mosque, and lakes with a harbor, highlighting the unique character of the estate. Interestingly, some elements of the palace complex survived the destruction of World War II, including the mosque, minaret, and artificial ruins. Between 2007 and 2010, the palace underwent significant renovations, foundation stabilization, and tower reconstruction. Today, as the home of the High School of Fine Arts, the palace continues to play an important role in the cultural life of the region.