Hidden behind the graceful willow trees of Konstancin-Jeziorna, a story unfolds before your very eyes. The Willa Ustronie, an elegant villa, stands proudly on Piotr Skargi Street. Its history whispers of artists, entrepreneurs, and brave acts of resistance during a dark time. In 1908, a brush in hand, Jozef Czajkowski, a painter and architect, envisioned a haven of tranquility and artistic inspiration. He designed the Willa Ustronie to resemble a romantic castle nestled along the Rhine River. The whimsical architecture, a blend of Secession with hints of Neo-Baroque, adds a touch of fairytale charm.
But the story of Willa Ustronie is more than just architectural elegance. It’s a canvas painted with the brushstrokes of fate. In 1919, a prominent figure, Kazimierz Ludwik Schiele, president of the Haberbusch & Schiele brewery, purchased the villa. Schiele, in collaboration with the renowned horticultural firm “C. Urlich”, transformed the surrounding grounds into an oasis of beauty. Green spaces, a gently flowing river, and a charming wooden bridge, create an enchanting ambiance.
After Schiele, his son Aleksander, an architect, mountaineer, and pioneer of skiing, inherited the villa. During the dark years of Nazi occupation, Willa Ustronie became a haven for the oppressed. Aleksander Schiele, risking his life, offered refuge to Jewish families, providing them with shelter. His bravery earned him the prestigious title of Righteous Among the Nations, a testament to his unwavering humanity.
For generations, the Schiele family diligently preserved the legacy of Willa Ustronie. With meticulous care, they ensured this landmark remained a beacon of beauty and resilience. In 1989, the villa passed into new hands, but its story continues to captivate, reminding us of the extraordinary people who once graced its halls. The Willa Ustronie stands as a monument to history, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who found solace and strength within its walls.