Krasiński Library in Warsaw

Cultural monument in downtown Warsaw with a tragic past

The Krasinski Library in Warsaw was a library of the magnate and art collector Wincenty Jan Krasiński. Since the library was founded in 1844, its holdings grew rapidly, partly due to donations of private collections. As a result, in 1919 a new building was constructed at ul. Okólnik 9 was erected. Until the outbreak of the Second World War, it housed a significant art collection. In October 1944, the entire collection in the building was burned by the German occupiers. Two years later the building was reconstructed, but for several years it has been without use and in need of renovation. The facade bears the inscription Amor Patriae Nostra Lex (Love of the Fatherland is our Right).