Chopin Monument

Monument in Warsaw

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Radek Kucharski

The Chopin Monument in Warsaw is one of Poland’s most beloved tributes to its national composer, Frédéric Chopin. Located in Łazienki Park, the monument was designed by Wacław Szymanowski and unveiled in 1926, after delays due to World War I. It depicts a contemplative Chopin seated under a stylized weeping willow, whose flowing lines evoke the Romanticism of his music. The design is symbolic, reflecting both Chopin’s introspective character and the lyrical, melancholic tone of many of his compositions.

During World War II, the monument was deliberately destroyed by the Nazis in 1940, as part of their efforts to suppress Polish culture. However, the original moulds had been preserved, and in 1958, the monument was reconstructed and returned to its rightful place in the park. The reinstallation marked a significant moment in Poland’s postwar cultural recovery, reaffirming Chopin’s enduring importance to the Polish identity and spirit. A plaque near the base of the monument commemorates its destruction and reconstruction.

Today, the monument is more than just a sculpture—it’s a focal point of cultural life in Warsaw. Every Sunday from May to September, free outdoor piano concerts are held at the site, where talented pianists perform Chopin’s works to large, appreciative crowds. These concerts attract both locals and tourists, creating a unique atmosphere where art, history, and nature converge. The Chopin Monument continues to serve not only as a memorial to a great composer, but also as a living celebration of his music.

The Chopin Monument appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Warsaw!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!