Kamienica Pod Gigantami

Amidst the grandeur of Warsaw’s Aleje Ujazdowskie, Kamienica Pod Gigantami stands as a silent sentinel. Kamienica Pod Gigantami, also known as “House under the Giants,” “Strzalecki’s tenement,” or “House under the Atlantes,” is more than just a building. It’s a time capsule, whispering tales of a rich past. Built between 1904 and 1907, Kamienica Pod Gigantami owes its existence to the renowned architect Władysław Marconi, who brought to life the vision of its owner, Antoni Jan Strzałecki. The imposing figures of giants, sculpted from sandstone by Zygmunt Otto, flank the main entrance, lending the building its popular name. One giant supports a balcony with his shoulder, while the other lifts it in his hands. This striking feature immediately draws the eye and sets the stage for the stories held within. Antoni Strzałecki, a painter and decorator, poured his passion into this building. He was known for his polychromes in various prestigious locations. He also had a deep love for Poland’s heritage, amassing a remarkable collection of art, furniture, and historical artifacts during a time when Polish culture was under threat. Many of these treasures found a home within the walls of Kamienica Pod Gigantami. The building itself seamlessly blends early modernist style with classical and baroque elements. The four-story structure boasts a symmetrical, nine-axis facade, and a two-story rusticated base. Above this base extends a second-floor balcony with an ornate wrought-iron balustrade, designed by Teofil Godecki. He also crafted the three medallions adorning the balcony, one of which features a portrait of the famous Polish painter Jan Matejko. Inside, remnants of the past linger. Traces of polychromes grace the staircase. The ground floor rooms showcase sections of boiseries, doors, and overdoors salvaged from the Tarnowski Palace, which was demolished in 1898 to make way for the Hotel Bristol. Interestingly, the restaurant currently housed within Kamienica Pod Gigantami features a wooden floor also originating from the Tarnowski Palace. Even a copy of a portrait of Stanisław August Poniatowski, painted by Marcello Bacciarelli, remains on display. During World War II, while other Strzałecki properties were destroyed, Kamienica Pod Gigantami miraculously survived, becoming a poignant symbol of resilience amidst devastation. Today, this architectural gem continues to captivate. A marble plaque, originally located under a ground floor window, now resides in the gateway, commemorating both Strzałecki and Marconi. It serves as a lasting tribute to the visionaries who brought this historical marvel to life.