Poland is home to all sorts of amazing buildings. The University of Wrocław is just one of them.

The University has a rich history of more than three centuries. Founded by Leopold I Habsburg, the university evolved from a modest school run by the Jesuits into one of the biggest academic institutions in Poland.

Since the beginning of the 20th century, the university has produced 9 Nobel Prize winners and today over 40,000 students are enrolled with 9,000 graduating each year.

This is Aula Leopoldina, the grand Baroque ceremonial hall. The Aula is located on the first floor and the most important academ­ic events take place here.

The painting on the ceiling depicts the apotheosis of God’s wisdom – reflecting the religious and academic mission of this room and the Jesuits.

The portraits on the walls depict the founding fathers of the University.

The University still functions as an academic building. One of its professors was Alois Alzheimer – the man who gave his name to the disease.

This is the Oratorium Marianum, which held concerts by some eminent artists such as Liszt, Brahms or Wieniawski. Sadly, it was completely damaged during WWII.

The frescoes represent the scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. The fresoces were originally painted by Johann Christoph Handke (who also decorated the Aula Leopoldina) and they were beautifully restored by the Dresden-based painter Christoph Wetzel in 2014 http://www.wroclaw.pl/en/oratorium-marianum-restored-photos-and-video

This is the staircase leading to the Mathematics Tower. There  you will find an exhibition depicting the history of the University of Wrocław. A magnificent view over the city is offered from the tower’s terrace.

So, open the door and just go in…

Published by natalyadrian

I am a writer, a teacher, a translator and a digital nomad. View all posts by natalyadrian