The Ogińskis' residence in Siedlce
A local administrative centre, Siedlce lies in the heart of a scenic region making a great destination for relaxation, recreation and sightseeing. There are plenty of interesting sights in the area, including the former magnates’ residences in Stok Lacki and Mordy. The old mansions of local nobility are also a delight to see. These can be admired in Chlewiska, Mościbrody and Wola Suchożebrska. The biggest asset of the land is its landscape, though, unspoilt by industry and conducive to rural tourism and all kinds of activities. Three trails run across the district, taking in the sites of national uprisings and the charming river valleys of the Liwiec and the Bug.
The best place to start exploring the tourist attractions of the Siedlce Region is its capital city where the number one sight is the Ogiński Palace. Erected in the first half of the 18th century, it owes its present appearance to Princess Aleksandra Ogińska who had it rebuilt in the classical style between 1779 and 1781. The palace is surrounded by a municipal park, originally one of the finest romantic gardens in Poland. The most outstanding personalities of the Polish Enlightenment stayed at the residence, including King Stanisław August Poniatowski. With successive owners over the course of the 19th century, it gradually fell into neglect. In 1944 the palace burnt down during military operations.
Rebuilt after the war, it did not regain its old splendour. The situation changed only a few years ago, when the Siedlce-based University of Podlasie became the new administrator of the historic residence. The university authorities made efforts to renovate the precious building and adapt it to new functions.
Following the restoration work, the building regained its original layout and design. The main hall and staircase were altered, the cellars were tidied up and the section added after 1950 was demolished. The courtyard was transformed to become the showcase of the university. Amenities for the disabled were provided. The project also included the development of a part of the park and the expansion of the university’s Institute of Computer Science.
The transformation of the palace and its grounds appeals both to the locals and the visitors coming to Siedlce. The university building serves mainly academic purposes, but has also become a major centre of culture. It is the city’s showpiece and a venue for classical music concerts, academic conferences, meetings and lectures.
The project to restore the Ogiński Palace in Siedlce won a special distinction in the 1st contest Poland Even More Beautiful. Seven Miracles of EU Funds in the Revitalization category.
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