Who would have thought that a furrier could become so successful? Right here in Mokotów in front of us stands the imposing Willa Arpada Chowańcza, a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of its former owner. Arpad Chowańczak, a man of humble beginnings, arrived in Warsaw in the late 19th century. He started small, with a fur storage business and a factory. His skill and business acumen saw him rise to the top of Warsaw’s fur industry. His company, A. Chowańczak & Swie, became synonymous with luxury. Their furs adorned the likes of Ignacy Mościcki and Pola Negri.
The success of his business allowed Arpad to build this beautiful villa in 1927. Nestled between Puławska Street and the slopes, the villa was a symbol of his achievements. However, the villa is more than just a luxurious home. It witnessed history unfold during the turbulent years of World War II. It became a shelter for those seeking refuge from the horrors of war. Jan Daniel Chowańczak, Arpad’s son, used his connections to secure arms for the resistance. The villa became a hiding place for Jewish families, former employees seeking safety.
One story whispers of Hanka, a young woman who found solace within the villa’s walls. Falling in love with a resistance fighter, she ventured into the garden to gather flowers for him. Tragically, she was caught in the crossfire, her white nightgown mistaken for a target. The villa survived the war, bearing silent witness to the city’s resilience. Today, the Willa Arpada Chowańcza stands as a reminder of the past. It is a symbol of entrepreneurial spirit, wartime resilience, and the enduring power of history.