The Palace in Mała Wieś

The Palace in Mała Wieś, located in the Grójec district, is a key monument of classicism in Poland, designed by Hilary Szpilowski on the commission of Bazyli Walicki. Constructed between 1783 and 1786, it served as an elegant residence for the aristocratic Walicki, Zamoyski, Lubomirski, and Morawski families. After World War II, the palace was nationalized and functioned as a summer retreat for the prime ministers of the Polish People's Republic and the Third Republic of Poland. Its history dates back to the 16th century when the estate belonged to the Zbierzchowski family. Bazyli Walicki, the first owner of the new palace, hosted King Stanisław August Poniatowski there in 1786. The palace's architecture is characterized by classicism, a rectangular layout, and a portico supported by eight columns. The interiors are adorned with frescoes, notably the Hall of Sages featuring portraits of ancient philosophers and the Pompeian Room with grotesque paintings. The palace garden originally consisted of three sections: French, English, and an orchard where the first apple trees in the region were planted. The palace became a cultural venue where films were shot, and after renovations between 2013 and 2016, it was transformed into a service facility with hotels and a restaurant. Interestingly, the palace hosted notable figures, including prime ministers of the Polish People's Republic, and was the site of historical events, such as Zdzisław Lubomirski's activities in the Regency Council after World War I. Today, the palace blends its rich heritage with modern functions, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts.