New Warsaw

My previous post was quite nostalgic, I am told. How else could it be when I was writing about meeting my old friends, talking with them about old times and visiting old places in Warsaw? It had to be nostalgic, but now, I think it is time for balancing the old with a new.

Warsaw has changed dramatically in the recent years. Luis Vuitton, Boss, Armani and other exclusive shops display their goods behind beautifully washed, gleaming, huge windows. This is a new side of Warsaw. One can see many very well designed, spectacular buildings that compete for attention to its height with the old Palace of Culture and Science still defending its Warsaw record of 231 meters. The building is not loved by all as this is a very ostentatious example of Stalinist architecture and the times Poles want to forget. Still after 60 years it became an integral part of the town. I would be sorry to see it disappear.

The Libeskind Sail is to the left of the Palace of Culture and Science

My favourite new building in Warsaw is The Sail of Daniel Libeskind. I did not know the name of the designer before I saw the building and noted its elegant beauty. My first impression was that it is an image of a surfboard. It must have been my Australian association. Quite accurate, I think, even if the designer perhaps did not have surfing in mind. At least not likely.  As I later found out Mr. Libeskind is of Polish Jewish descent and designed many famous and beautiful buildings in the world. I must say that I agree with some of his critics that all his buildings have strong similarities of sharp edges but I am still very pleased that one of his famous buildings is now the Warsaw landmark. The town has now many well and interestingly designed buildings. I am sorry to say that Sydney except for its spectacular Opera House does not have many buildings of architectural significance. To me all recent Sydney buildings are just high, but do not distinguish themselves by interesting designs. Maybe this is a sign of good economical judgment that I generally admire. Beautiful buildings are expensive. But wouldn't we all be sorry if Cathedral of Notre Dame or St. Paul’s were not built because it did not make economical sense? However, I am not in favour of following the equation of The Sale. Construction cost - PLN 700 million and selling price - PLN 215 million. Not a good business.

I could not find a picture showing The Sail from the angle from which it looks like a surfing board.

There are also political changes in Poland that may significantly influence the future of the country. The last week a new president was sworn in and in October the next Polish parliamentary election will take place. It looks that the current opposition will take a power over Poland. I am not qualified to make political predictions but from my perspective a difficult times are looming. I hope my fears are not going to become reality and that positive changes will continue and that I will be looking forward to my holidays in Poland for some years to come.