“Horseshoes and history” That’s what comes to mind when you see the Kubicki Stables. Right before you stands a testament to 19th-century elegance. These aren’t just any stables. They were designed by the renowned architect Jakub Kubicki. He’s the mastermind behind many Warsaw landmarks. This building is part of the Royal Łazienki Museum. The Kubicki Stables are shaped like a horseshoe. This unique design housed the royal horses. The main section was two stories high. It contained rooms for the staff. The ground floor wings were the stables themselves. The side wings served as coach houses.
The Kubicki Stables weren’t always a museum. In the 1990s a part of this building was devoted to the Museum of Hunting and Horsemanship. The museum combined the themes of hunting and horsemanship. This was a unique concept historically justified. It’s a very unique museum not just in Poland but across Europe. The museum boasts over 10000 exhibits. Many have educational and material value.
Between 2019 and 2021 the stables underwent major renovations. The project was called “Pegasus Stables”. It included extensive conservation and renovation work. The aim was to adapt the building for exhibitions and educational purposes. EU funds helped to make this project possible. The renovation restored the original form and layout of the Kubicki Stables. The renovated stables now house two permanent exhibitions. One is the Zbigniew Prus-Niewiadomski Carriage House. The other is the royal weaving workshop. The carriage house displays 19th and 20th century equestrian relics. You can see horse-drawn vehicles harnesses and accessories for both horses and riders. The weaving workshop showcases 19th-century Jacquard looms ornamental fabrics and more.
Today the Kubicki Stables are open to the public. They are a beautiful example of classicist architecture. This building is a must-see for anyone visiting Warsaw. This marvel of Polish architectural heritage remains a prominent part of the Royal Łazienki Museum. It offers a unique blend of history culture and artistry. Step inside and explore the rich history contained within these walls. You’ll find the Kubicki Stables an unforgettable experience.