On 1 April 1900, the villages of Jeżyce, Święty Łazarz, and Wilda were officially incorporated into Poznań, marking a pivotal transformation in its urban landscape. Now, as the city celebrates the 125th anniversary of this historic integration, residents reflect on what makes these districts distinct, vibrant, and deeply rooted in local identity. A series of events invites all generations to rediscover these neighbourhoods and celebrate what unites them.
Jeżyce: From Rural Village to Cultural Hub
With origins in the 13th century, Jeżyce began as a quiet village on Poznań’s western fringe. The real change came between 1846 and 1848, when the railway arrived, stitching Jeżyce into the city’s industrial fabric. By the late 1800s, rows of stately tenements emerged, many of which still define its aesthetic charm today.
In the 21st century, Jeżyce has become a creative nucleus. It’s where old-world elegance meets a modern café culture. The district buzzes with bookstores, start-ups, and quirky boutiques.
Jeżyce is a place where tradition inspires new ideas. Every corner tells a story — and those stories still grow.
describes Karolina Dąbrowska-Wiśniewska, a local guide.
Wilda: From Farmland to Factory Powerhouse
Once known as Wierzbica in 1235, Wilda evolved from a village into a factory-driven powerhouse in the 19th century. Its location on the route to Wrocław turned it into a vital trade point. The area’s name likely stems from Jakub Wilda, who owned it in the 1400s, but it was the industrial age that truly shaped its character.
Today, Wilda is one of Poznań’s most colourful, fast-evolving quarters. Rich in street art, packed with bakeries, studios, and community cafés, it’s become synonymous with local pride.
Łazarz: Rooted in History, Alive with Culture
Łazarz took its name from the Hospital of St. Lazarus, which owned the land in the 16th century. For centuries, it was a quieter cousin to Jeżyce and Wilda—until 1900, when it, too, became part of Poznań and quickly urbanised. Grand tenement blocks rose, boulevards widened, and parks flourished.
One of its crown jewels is Wilson Park, home to the iconic Palm House. But more than green spaces, Łazarz is known for its spirit.
Łazarz is a place with a soul. It has changed over the decades, but its character remains. That’s something we want to pass on to the next generation.
says Andrzej Janowski, head of the district council.
Honouring the 125th Anniversary: Events Across the City
To celebrate the 125th anniversary of Jeżyce, Łazarz, and Wilda becoming part of Poznań, a diverse programme of exhibitions, walks, talks, and creative workshops is taking place citywide. Organised by local councillors and the Aitwar Foundation, the goal is not only to remember history but to involve residents in shaping the present.
Libraries across the districts are leading the way. In Łazarz, Filia 4 (ul. Lodowa 4) hosts a commemorative exhibition until 11 April, while Filia 23 offers a historical slideshow and lecture on 2 April. Children aged 6–12 can submit artwork for the “My Favourite Place in Łazarz” competition at Filia 12/46, open until 7 April.
Beyond the library walls, guided walks, community meetups, and film screenings invite people of all ages to connect with local stories.
Key events for the 125th anniversary:
- Until 11 April – Exhibition: “125th Anniversary of Łazarz’s Incorporation”, Filia 4, ul. Lodowa 4
- 2 April (Wednesday), 11:30 – Slideshow & Talk on Łazarz’s History, Filia 23, ul. Hetmańska 41
- Until 7 April – Children’s Art Competition: “My Favourite Place in Łazarz”, Filia 12/46, ul. Arciszewskiego 27
- 4 April (Friday), 17:00 – Photo Lecture on Wilda’s History, Filia Wildecka, ul. Hetmańska 91
- 5 April (Saturday), 11:00 – Guided Walk through Wilda with Justyna Kuberka, starting at Rynek Wildecki
- 5 April (Saturday), 12:00 – Guided Walk through Jeżyce with Karolina Dąbrowska-Wiśniewska, starting at Rynek Jeżycki tram stop
- 5 April (Saturday), 19:00 – Film Screening: “Blessed” at ul. Stolarska 17, honouring local heroine Natalia Tułasiewicz
- 6 April (Sunday), 14:00 – Łazarz Historical Walk with Joanna Kamińska & Piotr Ciesielski, starting at Rynek Łazarski
- 7 April (Monday), 17:00 – Talk: “Reading Space – Poznań Trade Fair Architecture”, Filia 4, ul. Lodowa 4
Together, these events reflect the spirit of the 125th anniversary — bringing neighbours together, honouring identity, and building a shared future grounded in local history.
These events are about more than just remembering dates. They’re about connection. We want residents to feel part of the anniversary, not just spectators.
explains Edyta Czernecka from Fundacja Aitwar.
Building Community Through Shared Heritage
The 125th anniversary isn’t just a look back — it’s a celebration of what these districts have become together. By opening up their histories to new generations, Jeżyce, Łazarz, and Wilda affirm how local heritage shapes civic pride. Walking through these streets today, you’re not just seeing history — you’re walking through stories still being written.
These neighbourhoods are a reminder that cities aren’t built just with bricks, but with people, memory, and meaning. As Poznań celebrates its past, it also looks forward — with energy drawn straight from the heart of Jeżyce, Łazarz, and Wilda.
