The Royal Gardens at Wawel

The Royal Gardens at Wawel are a well-known tourist attraction opened in 2005, with a history dating back to the 16th century. Archaeological work began in the 1990s, and research revealed that the gardens were established after the fire of the castle’s eastern wing in 1536. The garden was built with brick walkways, and between them were plots of black soil where herbs and spices were cultivated. The first known owner of the gardens was Queen Bona, and nearby was the garden of King Sigismund I the Old, which had a recreational character, featuring an arbor called "Paradise" and a vineyard. Archaeologists also uncovered a section of the "royal road" leading to the bathhouse, considered the oldest Renaissance brick road in Poland. Although neglected during the Vasa era, the gardens survived at Wawel for two centuries, but they suffered destruction during the Swedish Deluge, the remodeling of fortifications in the 18th century, and damage during the partitions in the 19th century. In the interwar period, plans for their reconstruction emerged, and during World War II, the garden area was used by Governor-General Hans Frank to build tennis courts. Today, efforts are focused on faithfully restoring the gardens in the Renaissance style. Thanks to archaeological discoveries and historical sources, two terraces have been reconstructed, and research continues on the lower terrace. Herbs, spices, and plants from the 16th century, reflecting historical accounts, have been planted in oak boxes. Special attention has been given to grapevines and the French rose, which has been rooted in Poland since the 17th century. The garden’s vegetation is gradually being supplemented with additional species of historical plants cultivated in the 15th and 16th centuries, making it a unique example of a Renaissance garden space in Poland.