Walk in Warsaw: Royal Route
Royal Castle Square and Zygmunt's Column, Warsaw / Shutterstock
Royal Castle Square and Zygmunt's Column
This square, from which the streets Krakowskie Przedmieście, Senatorska, Podwale, Piwna, Świętojańska and Kanonia all start, is the heart of Warsaw's Old Town and one of the most characteristic places in the capital. The oldest monument in the city stands right in the middle of the square and presents King Zygmunt III Waza. The monument, commonly known as Zygmunt's Column, was created in 1644 by the Italian sculptor Clemenete Molli. Today it's a favourite meeting place for Varsovians.
In the past, Royal Castle Square was the stage for many historical events. On 27th February 1861 5 people were shot during demonstrations against the Russian authorities, which stirred up further social unrest. A few months later, on 8th April 1861, the Russian Army massacred over 100 Warsaw citizens, which was a moment of great significance in the build up to the January Uprising. On 15th November 1920, Joseph Piłsudski was presented with the Marshal's Baton and 62 years later, on 3rd May 1982, during Martial Law, the ZOMO (paramilitary Police formation) pacified a patriotic demonstration. Today, New Year parties, concerts and festivals are organised on the square.