Mostowski Palace in Warsaw

The Mostowski Palace, also known as the Hylzen Palace, is located at 2 Nowolipie Street in Warsaw and currently serves as the headquarters of the Capital Police Command. Its history dates back to the early 18th century, when around 1735 a two-story manor was built according to the design of architect Jan Zygmunt Deybel. During the 18th century, the palace underwent a series of transformations, becoming a prestigious residence. In 1762, Minsk voivode Jan August Hylzen purchased an adjacent plot, which allowed for the expansion of the courtyard and the creation of a new entrance gate. After Jan Hylzen's death in 1767, his wife Konstancja continued construction work, giving the building a classicist character. In the 19th century, under the direction of Hylzen's grandson, Tadeusz Antoni Mostowski, the palace gained cultural significance, becoming a meeting place for literary elites and the seat of government institutions such as the Government Commission for Internal Affairs and Police. The building was thoroughly rebuilt between 1823 and 1826, and its interiors were adorned with works of art, including reliefs depicting various areas of social life. After 1918, the palace underwent a series of changes, including reconstruction following the destruction of World War II. In 1949, work began according to the design of Zygmunt Stępiński, transforming the building into the headquarters of the Citizens' Militia. Between 2005 and 2006, a renovation was carried out, restoring some historical details, such as the eagle from 1823. The palace is also the site of significant historical events, including the celebration of imperial holidays after the November Uprising and the transfer of the painting gallery from the Kazimierzowski Palace in 1870. The building is also linked to popular culture—it appears in Leopold Tyrmand's novel "Zły" and as a filming location for scenes in the TV series "Pitbull." Additionally, the palace is associated with the memory of police service dogs, as evidenced by a plaque unveiled in 2020. The Mostowski Palace is thus not only an example of classicist architecture but also an important element of Warsaw's history and culture.