Rozbrat

Rozbrat is a complex of buildings located on Kazimierza Pułaskiego Street in Poznań, which has functioned as an alternative socio-cultural center since 1994. The name of the squat signifies a "break" (rozbrat) with authority and hierarchy, emphasizing self-governance and grassroots organization. In its early days, activists occupied a building that had previously been a defunct wholesale warehouse, creating a libertarian commune where residents spent time together and organized communal meals. Over time, the squat evolved into a hub for independent culture, hosting concerts, workshops, and artistic events, as well as giving rise to initiatives such as the Anarchist Library and the Anarchist Club. In 2001, Rozbrat gained access to running water, but since 2008, it has faced legal challenges related to demolition orders and disputes over plot ownership among various claimants. The activities at Rozbrat include numerous organizations, such as the Poznań Anti-War Coalition and the Food Not Bombs initiative, as well as an annual birthday festival that attracts artists and participants. Rozbrat is also a place of criticism toward city authorities, particularly in the context of gentrification and living conditions in tenement houses (hadłost). Characteristic features of the place also include graffiti-related events and bicycle workshops, making Rozbrat a significant landmark on Poznań's cultural map.