Powązki Cemetery, Warsaw - Memorial and Muzeum Auschwitz - Birkenau Former German Nazi Concentration Extermination Camp All over the world, Auschwitz has become a symbol of terror, genocide, and the Shoah. It was established by Germans in 1940, in the suburbs of Oswiecim, a Polish city that was annexed to the Third Reich by the Nazis. Its name was changed to Auschwitz, which also became the name of Konzentrationslager Auschwitz.
1 / 10

Powązki Cemetery Warsaw

4.8
·701 reviews·Warszawa, Poland

A vast, historic cemetery showcasing stunning art and serving as the final resting place for Poland's most notable figures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming nature, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Powązki Cemetery, Warsaw - Memorial and Muzeum Auschwitz - Birkenau Former German Nazi Concentration Extermination Camp All over the world, Auschwitz has become a symbol of terror, genocide, and the Shoah. It was established by Germans in 1940, in the suburbs of Oswiecim, a Polish city that was annexed to the Third Reich by the Nazis. Its name was changed to Auschwitz, which also became the name of Konzentrationslager Auschwitz.

Powązki Cemetery Warsaw

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming nature, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast, historic cemetery showcasing stunning art and serving as the final resting place for Poland's most notable figures.

4.8
(701 reviews)

"A beautiful cemetery with plenty of statues and other kind of art, offering a peaceful escape."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Download a Map App

The cemetery is huge! Use an app to navigate and find specific graves. :iphone:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking for hours. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artistic Tombstones and Sculptures

Artistic Tombstones and Sculptures

Throughout the cemetery

Marvel at intricate statues, archangels, and unique tomb designs that showcase artistic talent.

Reddit
Graves of Notable Poles

Graves of Notable Poles

Various sections

Pay respects to famous writers, artists, politicians, and sports figures like Kazimierz Deyna.

Instagram
Tranquil Green Spaces

Tranquil Green Spaces

Throughout the cemetery

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere amidst mature trees, offering shade and a serene escape.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Powązki Cemetery

This vast cemetery can be overwhelming. Consider downloading a map app or using a physical map to locate specific graves. Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore, and wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Reddit

Respectful Visitation

Powązki is an active cemetery and a place of remembrance. Visitors are encouraged to be quiet and respectful. While it's a popular tourist spot, remember it's a final resting place for many. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming nature, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, peaceful
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ideas for a weekend in Warsaw - Melt museum 🌟 📍 plac Powstańców Warszawy 2A, 00-030 Warszawa, Poland #digitalart #meltmuseum #exhibitionwarsaw #warsawplaces #warsawpoland #warszawa
@elly_in_berlin
16K likes • 454.7K views

🗺️ Download a Map App

The cemetery is huge! Use an app to navigate and find specific graves. Reddit :iphone:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking for hours. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

10 things to do in Warsaw! #warsaw #poland🇵🇱 #europe #thingstodo #sightseeing #travel #travelling #traveltiktok #fyp
@sydneytetley
11.7K likes • 327.4K views
Nawiedziłem grób Kazimierza Deyny. Oddałem hołd wielkiemu sportowcowi. 🎥 @karol_synowiec_foto_sport #legend #polska #legiawarszawa #deyna #kazimierzdeyna #memoria #warszawa #warsaw #manchestercity #maływielkifutbol #karolsynowiec #football #piłkanożna #pamięć #powązki #historia #senowarszawie #niemen
karol_synowiec_foto_sport
63 likes • 1.7K views

☔ Be Prepared for Weather

Raincoats and umbrellas are recommended, especially in cooler months. Reddit :umbrella:

🤫 Maintain Quiet Respect

This is a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels down and be mindful of others. Instagram :pray:

Varsovaan! Tässä on katkelmia Powązkin hautausmaalta, joka oli aivan yhtä huikea ja kovatasoinen vierailukohde kuin mikä tahansa muukin historiallisen suurkaupungin päähautausmaa Keski-Euroopassa. Kuljin sen kujanteita pitkin niin Allegrin Miserere Mein kuin Mozartin Requieminkin tahdissa. Muitakin kohteita on Puolan pääkaupungissa toki koluttu, niistä lisää huomenissa... #graveyard #cemetery #pow...
lusbula
41 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Download a Map App

The cemetery is huge! Use an app to navigate and find specific graves. Reddit :iphone:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking for hours. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

☔ Be Prepared for Weather

Raincoats and umbrellas are recommended, especially in cooler months. Reddit :umbrella:

🤫 Maintain Quiet Respect

This is a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels down and be mindful of others. Instagram :pray:

⏰ Check Closing Times

Be aware of closing hours to avoid getting locked in. Reddit :clock1:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(701 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Powązki Cemetery for its artistic beauty, historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere. Many are impressed by the intricate tombstones and sculptures, finding it a unique and moving experience. Some note its vast size can be overwhelming, and parking can be challenging.

"Beautiful cemetery with plenty of statues and other kind of art. We visited late during the day, and got stuck after closure. On gate 4 the caretaker came to open after a while."

Where Can I FLY

"This Cemetery has a lot of graves with different desigs . . I visited as visitor.. its well maintained and the deceased definitely finds after life respect here . More parking in the front could have helped more."

Kalyan Teja

"Price: free
Time: +2 hours

The huge cemetery with an application on mobile to navigate around the cemetery as it's toooooooooo big to really grab its size and see everywhere other size.

There are plenty of various tombstones and statues that represent archangels, hand, cathedral and more.

There are plenty of trees around the cemetery that provide sheds during the summer and there is still red squirrels around the cemetery."

Mathieu Labro

What People Like

Artistic tombstones and sculptures
Historical significance
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Vast size
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Powązki Cemetery is accessible by public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby. You can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service. TikTok

Limited parking is available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Reddit

It's a significant distance, so walking is not recommended. Public transport or a taxi is a better option. TikTok

Bus lines 103, 157, 180, and 186 stop near the cemetery. Check local transport schedules for exact routes and times. TikTok

Yes, it's a large and well-known landmark. Follow signs for 'Cmentarz Powązkowski'. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Powązki Cemetery is free to enter and explore. Reddit

The cemetery is generally open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check current times before your visit. Reddit

While generally open daily, it's important to be aware of the closing times to avoid being locked in. Reddit

No advance booking is required as entry is free. Reddit

Visitors are expected to be respectful and quiet. Large groups might need to coordinate in advance, but for general visits, no special permissions are needed. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Powązki Cemetery is very large, covering a significant area. It's easy to spend several hours exploring its vast grounds. Reddit

Yes, maps are often available at the entrance, and there are also mobile applications that can help you navigate. Reddit

You'll find a wide array of artistic tombstones, sculptures, and mausoleums, many depicting religious figures and symbolic imagery. Reddit

While not always officially advertised, local guides may offer tours. You can also explore independently using maps and information. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but always be respectful and avoid intrusive shots, especially near active services or private memorials. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Look for the most elaborate tombstones, statues, and the grand mausoleums. The interplay of light and shadow can be very dramatic. Instagram

It's generally acceptable for personal memories, but avoid close-ups of names or personal inscriptions out of respect. Focus on the artistry and atmosphere. Instagram

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light that enhances the atmosphere and details of the sculptures. Instagram

While not strictly enforced for casual visitors, professional or commercial photography might require permission. Always be discreet and respectful. Instagram

Drone usage is generally prohibited in cemeteries and public spaces due to privacy and safety concerns. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Powązki Cemetery can be a surprisingly engaging visit for families, offering a unique blend of history, art, and nature. The sheer scale of the cemetery and the diverse, often dramatic, tombstone designs can capture a child's imagination. It's a chance to talk about history in a tangible way, perhaps by looking for interesting animal sculptures or grand statues. Reddit

Key tips for families: Bring snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Ensure children understand the need for quiet and respectful behavior. Consider focusing on a specific section or a few notable graves to avoid overwhelming younger visitors. The open green spaces also offer a chance for a peaceful break. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & History Buffs

For solo travelers and history enthusiasts, Powązki Cemetery is a must-visit. It offers a profound opportunity for quiet contemplation and deep dives into Polish history. You can spend hours meticulously searching for the graves of your favorite historical figures, artists, or directors, like Krzysztof Kieślowski, and absorbing the atmosphere. Reddit

Recommendations: Download a detailed map or use a navigation app. Research prominent figures buried here beforehand to create a 'graves to find' list. Take your time, read inscriptions (if you can decipher them), and let the stories etched in stone unfold around you. The cemetery's quietude is perfect for personal reflection. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living Museum of Polish History

Powązki Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it's a significant historical monument and an open-air museum. Established in 1790, it has witnessed centuries of Polish history, serving as the final resting place for generations of the nation's most influential figures. From national heroes and artists to scientists and politicians, the cemetery's inhabitants tell the story of Poland's triumphs and tragedies. Walking through its paths is like taking a journey through the country's rich and complex past. Reddit

Many of the tombstones are works of art in themselves, featuring intricate sculptures, elaborate designs, and poignant epitaphs. You'll find representations of angels, hands reaching out, and architectural elements that reflect different artistic periods and styles. The sheer variety and craftsmanship on display are astounding, making it a fascinating place for anyone interested in art, history, or simply the human condition. Reddit

For those looking to connect with specific historical figures, like the director Krzysztof Kieślowski, the cemetery offers a tangible link to their legacy. While finding specific graves can be a challenge due to the cemetery's size, the effort is often rewarded with a profound sense of connection and reflection. Reddit

Navigating the Vastness: Tips for Exploration

Powązki Cemetery is enormous, and exploring it without a plan can be daunting. Many visitors recommend using a map, either a physical one obtained at the entrance or a digital map application on your smartphone. These tools are invaluable for locating specific graves or simply for orienting yourself within the sprawling grounds. Reddit

Comfortable footwear is non-negotiable. You'll be covering a lot of ground, and the paths can be uneven. Consider wearing sturdy walking shoes or sneakers. The weather in Warsaw can be unpredictable, so checking the forecast and dressing in layers, with a raincoat or umbrella, is a wise precaution, especially outside of summer. Reddit

Allow ample time for your visit. Most people find that 2-3 hours is a good minimum to get a feel for the cemetery, but you could easily spend half a day or more if you're deeply interested in history or art. Be mindful of the closing times to ensure you don't get caught inside after hours. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2