Powązki Military Cemetery, Warsaw - Memorial and Muzeum Auschwitz - Birkenau Former German Nazi Concentration Extermination Camp All over the world, Auschwitz has become a symbol of terror, genocide, and the Shoah. It was established by Germans in 1940, in the suburbs of Oswiecim, a Polish city that was annexed to the Third Reich by the Nazis. Its name was changed to Auschwitz, which also became the name of Konzentrationslager Auschwitz.
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Powązki Military Cemetery Warsaw

4.8
·438 reviews·Warszawa, Poland

A solemn and expansive military cemetery in Warsaw, honoring Polish heroes and bearing witness to the nation's turbulent history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Powązki Military Cemetery, Warsaw - Memorial and Muzeum Auschwitz - Birkenau Former German Nazi Concentration Extermination Camp All over the world, Auschwitz has become a symbol of terror, genocide, and the Shoah. It was established by Germans in 1940, in the suburbs of Oswiecim, a Polish city that was annexed to the Third Reich by the Nazis. Its name was changed to Auschwitz, which also became the name of Konzentrationslager Auschwitz.

Powązki Military Cemetery Warsaw

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A solemn and expansive military cemetery in Warsaw, honoring Polish heroes and bearing witness to the nation's turbulent history.

4.8
(438 reviews)

"A place of great history of Poland where many heroes rest in there."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across a large area. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

This is a vast cemetery; dedicate at least 2-3 hours to explore properly. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Władysław Szpilman's Grave

Władysław Szpilman's Grave

Section B-II-12

Visit the final resting place of the pianist whose survival story inspired 'The Pianist'.

Smolensk Tragedy Monument

Smolensk Tragedy Monument

Central part of the cemetery

A poignant monument commemorating the 2010 plane crash that claimed the lives of many Polish dignitaries.

Heroes of Uprisings and Wars

Heroes of Uprisings and Wars

Various sections

Explore the graves of soldiers and heroes from WWI, WWII, and the Warsaw Uprising.

Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visitation

Powązki Military Cemetery is a solemn place of remembrance. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor. Many visitors find it a deeply moving experience, reflecting on Poland's history and the sacrifices made.

Photography Considerations

While photography is generally permitted, be mindful of the sensitive nature of the site. Avoid intrusive shots and always be respectful of mourners and ongoing ceremonies. Drones are typically not allowed.Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Atmospheric and reflective
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Part 2: @woltersworld shares #traveltips about #travelling to #poland and #patrickney #reacts. #warsaw #dontdothis #tipping #reactionvids
@thefirstnews
425.1K likes • 3.8M views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across a large area. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

This is a vast cemetery; dedicate at least 2-3 hours to explore properly. :clock1:

Few people know about it. The Powązki Military Cemetery in Warsaw, which every Pole has heard of. It is the burial place of participants of uprisings and wars for freedom. It was founded in 1912. By the Russians!!! As an Orthodox cemetery. It was intended for the dead Russian soldiers. in 1915 passed into the hands of the Germans. Only in 1918. was taken over by the Polish army. Write in the comme...
necropolises.of.warsaw
17 likes • 146 views
reddit.com

Cemetery in Warsaw on All Souls' Day.

Check for Events

Special ceremonies or commemorations might be taking place. :calendar:

Bring Water

Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated. :droplet:

reddit.com

Powązki Military Cemetery in Warsaw (Cmentarz Wojskowy) 🕯🇵🇱

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking across a large area. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

This is a vast cemetery; dedicate at least 2-3 hours to explore properly. :clock1:

Check for Events

Special ceremonies or commemorations might be taking place. :calendar:

Bring Water

Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(438 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Powązki Military Cemetery to be a deeply moving and historically significant site, offering a profound glimpse into Poland's past and the sacrifices of its heroes. While some note the presence of controversial graves, the overwhelming sentiment is one of respect and awe for the courage and resilience of the Polish people. It's considered a unique and essential stop for understanding Warsaw's history.

"This military cemetery was established before World War I and has war graves from WWI, WWII, the Warsaw Uprising and many famous people. One of the famous graves is Wladyslaw Szpilman, who wrote an autobiography titled Death of a City.... about his survival in Warsaw during World War II....the 2002 film The Pianist."

The WWII Professor

"More than cemetery. This a place where history is mixed with heroes and ordinary people and soldiers who died during the last hundred years or so. You will find many famous people buried there as well as great old trees. A place full of mysterious climate."

Oakfriend

"Probably the most unusual first place to visit as a tourist, but i liked it. There were some graves that caught my attention and made me look up who they were. But the main reason why i had to visit was the Smolensk Tragedy monument."

Edvinas Klėjus

What People Like

Profound historical significance
Moving atmosphere
Graves of heroes

What People Dislike

Graves of controversial figures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cemetery is accessible by public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby, including routes that connect to the city center. Trams also serve the area. Consider using a navigation app for real-time routes. TikTok

Limited parking may be available, but it's often best to rely on public transportation due to the cemetery's popularity and size. Check local signage for designated parking areas. Reddit

It's a significant distance to walk from the absolute center of Warsaw. Public transport is highly recommended for efficiency and comfort. TikTok

The cemetery is extensive. Grab a map at the entrance if available, or use your phone's GPS. Many visitors find it helpful to focus on specific sections or notable graves. Reddit

While not always advertised, sometimes local guides offer tours. Inquire at the entrance or look for information online. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Powązki Military Cemetery is generally free. It's a public space for remembrance and reflection. Instagram

The cemetery typically has extended opening hours, often from early morning until dusk. It's advisable to check the official website or local listings for the most current times, especially around holidays. Reddit

While general entry is free, special commemorative events might have associated costs or require prior registration. Reddit

Yes, All Souls' Day (November 1st) is a significant time for visiting cemeteries in Poland. Expect larger crowds and many candles lit. Reddit

Visitors are expected to behave respectfully. Large groups should be mindful of ongoing ceremonies. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be respectful. Avoid intrusive shots of mourners or ceremonies. Reddit

Drones are typically prohibited in cemeteries to ensure peace and respect. Always check local regulations before flying. Reddit

The grand monuments, older sections with mature trees, and the graves of famous figures offer compelling photographic opportunities. The atmosphere can be particularly striking on overcast days. Instagram

During official ceremonies or religious services, photography may be restricted or require special permission. Reddit

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, especially for capturing the atmospheric feel. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the monuments. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Significance

Established in 1912, it's a burial ground for Polish soldiers and heroes from various conflicts, including WWI, WWII, and the Warsaw Uprising. It's a testament to Poland's struggle for independence. Instagram

Notable figures include Władysław Szpilman (pianist), numerous military leaders, artists, and politicians. Reddit

It's a memorial dedicated to the victims of the 2010 plane crash that tragically killed Polish President Lech Kaczyński and many other prominent figures. Reddit

The combination of historical depth, grand old trees, and the solemn nature of a burial ground creates a unique, often somber and reflective atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, due to its history, the cemetery contains graves of individuals from different political eras, which can be a point of contention for some visitors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Powązki Military Cemetery with children requires a thoughtful approach. It's an opportunity to teach them about history, sacrifice, and remembrance in a tangible way. Focus on the stories of heroes and the importance of respecting those who have passed. Highlighting figures like Władysław Szpilman can make the history more relatable. Keep the visit relatively short and engaging, perhaps focusing on a few key areas rather than trying to see everything. Ensure children understand the need for quiet and respectful behavior. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Powązki Military Cemetery offers a rich tapestry of historical and atmospheric subjects. The grand monuments, weathered gravestones, and mature trees create dramatic compositions. Explore different times of day to capture varying light conditions, with early mornings and late afternoons often providing the most evocative light. Be mindful of the cemetery's solemn nature and always prioritize respectful photography. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

This cemetery is a must-visit for anyone interested in Polish history. It serves as a living testament to the nation's struggles and triumphs. Focus on the sections dedicated to the Warsaw Uprising and World War II to gain a deeper understanding of these pivotal periods. Researching notable figures buried here beforehand can greatly enhance the experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living Chronicle of Polish History

Powązki Military Cemetery is far more than just a burial ground; it's a profound historical document etched in stone and earth. Established in 1912, its origins are complex, initially serving as an Orthodox cemetery for Russian soldiers before being taken over by Polish forces in 1918. This layered history is reflected in its diverse monuments and the stories they tell. Visitors can trace the nation's turbulent past through the graves of soldiers from World War I, the interwar period, World War II, and the heroic, yet tragic, Warsaw Uprising. The cemetery is a place where national heroes, artists, and ordinary citizens who fought for Poland's freedom rest side-by-side. Instagram

Among the most poignant sites is the grave of Władysław Szpilman, the renowned pianist whose survival during the Nazi occupation of Warsaw was immortalized in the film 'The Pianist'. His story is a powerful reminder of individual resilience amidst immense suffering. Another significant landmark is the Smolensk Tragedy Monument, a solemn tribute to the 96 people, including President Lech Kaczyński, who perished in the 2010 plane crash. These specific memorials, alongside countless unnamed graves, contribute to the cemetery's deeply moving and often overwhelming atmosphere, making it a crucial site for understanding Poland's 20th-century history. Reddit

Navigating this expansive site can be an emotional journey. The sheer scale of the cemetery, combined with the weight of history, can be profoundly impactful. Many visitors report feeling a deep connection to the past and a renewed appreciation for the sacrifices made. It's a place that encourages reflection on courage, loss, and the enduring spirit of a nation. Reddit

Photography and Atmosphere

Capturing the essence of Powązki Military Cemetery requires a sensitive approach. The cemetery's atmosphere is often described as solemn, mysterious, and deeply reflective, making it a compelling subject for photographers. The mature trees, intricate sculptures, and weathered gravestones create a unique visual narrative. Overcast days can enhance the dramatic mood, while spring and autumn offer beautiful natural light and colors that complement the historical setting. Instagram

When photographing, focus on the details that tell a story: the inscriptions on the tombstones, the artistry of the monuments, and the interplay of light and shadow among the trees. The Smolensk Tragedy Monument and the graves of notable figures like Władysław Szpilman are popular subjects, but don't overlook the quiet beauty of older, less ornate graves. Remember that this is a place of remembrance, so always be discreet and respectful. Avoid intrusive flash photography, especially near ceremonies or mourners. Reddit

While drones are generally prohibited,Reddit a good quality camera with decent low-light capabilities will serve you well. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the larger monuments and the vastness of the cemetery, and a prime lens for detailed shots of inscriptions or sculptural elements. The goal is to capture the cemetery's profound sense of history and its quiet, contemplative spirit. Reddit

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