Jan Kiliński Monument

Monument in Warsaw

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Lukas Plewnia

The Jan Kiliński Monument stands as a tribute to one of Warsaw’s most celebrated national heroes, a shoemaker-turned-insurgent who played a pivotal role in the Kościuszko Uprising of 1794 against Russian rule. The monument captures Kiliński mid-stride, wielding a sword and exuding determination—symbolizing the power of the common people rising against oppression. First erected in 1936 by sculptor Stanisław Jackowski, the statue was originally placed in front of the Warsaw Museum and quickly became a patriotic symbol for the capital’s residents.

During World War II, the monument gained renewed importance as a quiet yet potent symbol of resistance. The Germans removed it in 1944 following the Warsaw Uprising, attempting to quash the morale it inspired. However, the people of Warsaw protected it and restored it after the war. In 1959, it was relocated to its current spot on Podwale Street, close to the city walls and the Warsaw Barbican—an area steeped in the history of the city’s defenses.

Today, the Jan Kiliński Monument serves not only as a commemoration of a historical figure but also as a reminder of the enduring spirit of Polish resistance and resilience. Locals and tourists alike often stop to admire the statue and read the inscription, which speaks to a proud legacy of fighting for freedom. Its proximity to other Old Town landmarks makes it a natural and meaningful stop on any walking tour of Warsaw’s historic heart.

The Jan Kiliński Monument appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Warsaw!

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