Żelazowa Wola – the place where everything started
Żelazowa Wola is a small village near Warsaw (50 km) which attracts people from all over the world. Why? For one reason: it was here that Frederic Chopin was born. In fact, Chopin’s parents both worked here for Skarbek family, who owned the place. But they didn’t stay here for a long time. When Frederic was still a baby, the family moved to Warsaw. Nevertheless, both families maintained friendship and Fryderyk visited the place a few times.
A museum created after many difficulties
In the years following Chopin’s death his birth place was neglected for a long time. Moreover, there was no proper commemoration of the fact that he was born here. This situation lasted until the visit of Mily Balakirev in Żelazowa Wola at the end of the 19-th century. It was thanks to him that the first monument to Chopin appeared here. Finally a small exhibition was inaugurated in the part of the Skarbek’s manor that had survived. Then started WWII and some precious objects disappeared (such as Chopin’s piano by Pleyel). After the war it was possible to develop this project and to create a beautiful park around the museum.
Unforgettable atmosphere, music and nature
Nowadays in Żelazowa Wola you can visit a small exhibition inside the house. It displays objects related to Skarbek family and their relations with Chopin. It recreates a typical interior of this kind of residences in the 19-th century. However, the visit wouldn’t be so pleasant without the surrounding park and music. Indeed, you can hear Chopin’s music in various places in the park and if you come here on Sunday (from May to September), you can listen to a live concert. If you wish to book a tour to Żelazowa Wola with us, click here.
Otherwise just enjoy a walk in this beautiful and romantic entourage. In my opinion this park is magnificent and it’s a perfect place to relax and be near nature (and music).
