Heritage restoration plays a vital role in preserving Poznań’s cultural identity and architectural splendour. In 2024, the city took a significant step forward by allocating 1.3 million PLN to the restoration of 11 historic landmarks. From elegant Art Nouveau tenements in Łazarz and Jeżyce to ornate Baroque altars in the city’s churches, these projects highlight Poznań’s commitment to protecting its rich history and ensuring that future generations can admire its treasures.
What Is Heritage Restoration?
Heritage restoration involves the meticulous preservation, repair, and renewal of historic structures to maintain their cultural, architectural, and historical significance. It’s not just about maintaining appearances—restoration ensures that these buildings remain safe and functional while respecting their original design and materials.
In Poznań, heritage restoration is crucial. The city’s landmarks tell the story of its diverse past, from its Art Nouveau architecture to Gothic and Baroque religious structures. By restoring these sites, Poznań preserves its identity, fosters local pride, and enhances its appeal to visitors, all while contributing to a sense of continuity between past and present.
How Poznań Selected Its 2024 Restoration Projects
The decision to fund specific restoration projects was made by the city council, which evaluated 27 applications submitted by owners of historic buildings. Out of these, 11 were selected based on criteria such as historical value, technical condition, and the urgency of conservation work.
These grants were reserved for buildings listed in the heritage register and located in Poznań but not owned by the city. Notably, the programme for 2025 has been expanded to include buildings listed in the municipal heritage inventory, offering even more opportunities to preserve local treasures.

Highlights of 2024’s Heritage Restoration Projects
- Art Nouveau Tenements in Łazarz and Jeżyce
Two tenements in Łazarz received significant funding to restore their beautiful architectural details. A building on Matejki and Grottgera streets had its façade revitalised with a 135,000 PLN grant, while 70,100 PLN funded the restoration of a stunning staircase in the Chełmońskiego 22 tenement. These buildings, constructed in the early 1900s, showcase the flowing lines and floral motifs typical of Art Nouveau.
Jeżyce also saw heritage restoration work, with the iconic tenement on Roosevelta and Zacisze streets receiving 200,000 PLN to repair its intricate side façade.
- Franciscan Church on Franciszkańska Street
This Baroque masterpiece was another key beneficiary of Poznań’s 2024 restoration grants. The city provided 290,000 PLN for the conservation of its most valuable feature: the altar of Our Lady of Miracles. Restoration work included repairing the original rotating mechanism, which allows the altar’s decorative columns and paintings to move—a fascinating example of Baroque craftsmanship.
- South Façade of St. Anthony’s Church
Located on Garbary Street, St. Anthony’s Church received 250,000 PLN to continue the restoration of its Gothic Revival south façade. This church, a prominent part of Poznań’s skyline, has been undergoing phased restoration since 2015, ensuring its long-term preservation.
- Synagogue on Stawna Street
The Stawna Synagogue, an architectural gem in the Moorish Revival style, used a 50,000 PLN grant to restore its original stained-glass windows. This historic building is an important testament to Poznań’s Jewish heritage and continues to serve as a symbol of cultural diversity.
- Poznań Society of Friends of Science Building
The tenement at Mielżyńskiego 27/29, which houses the Poznań Society of Friends of Science, received 50,000 PLN to continue restoring its original woodwork. This restoration project ensures that the building retains its character while supporting its function as a hub for academic and cultural activities.
- Kamienica on Woźna Street
The building at Woźna 7/8 and 9 received a 50,000 PLN grant to restore its original woodwork. This tenement is an example of Poznań’s urban housing architecture, blending functional design with historic details.
- Tenement on Wodna Street
A significant 125,000 PLN grant was awarded to the tenement at Wodna 22 to restore its roof. The work ensured the structural safety of this historic building, preserving its characteristic style and charm.
- Entrance Doors at Wyspiańskiego 15
Even small grants had a significant impact. A modest 4,900 PLN allocation helped restore the entrance doors at Wyspiańskiego 15. This project revived a small yet essential element of this tenement, bringing its historic character back to life.
- Staircase in the Chełmońskiego 22 Tenement
In addition to the façade work, the Chełmońskiego 22 tenement saw its staircase fully restored. The project brought back its intricate wooden carvings, stained-glass accents, and decorative railings.
- Jewish Community Building on Stawna Street
The historic building at Stawna 10, belonging to the Jewish Community, received 50,000 PLN for the restoration of its original woodwork. This project reinforced Poznań’s commitment to preserving diverse aspects of its cultural heritage.
- Additional Repairs at Wodna 22
In addition to roof repairs, the Wodna 22 tenement underwent further work, including reinforcement of structural elements. The combined efforts highlight the city’s dedication to preserving even complex and multi-stage projects.




Why Heritage Restoration Matters for Poznań
Heritage restoration is about more than just preserving beautiful buildings—it’s about maintaining the soul of a city. For Poznań, these efforts preserve its unique architectural heritage, attract tourists, and create a stronger sense of community. Restored landmarks like the Franciscan Church altar or the Art Nouveau tenements of Łazarz remind residents and visitors alike of the city’s rich past while enhancing its visual and cultural appeal.
Thanks to its 2024 restoration programme, Poznań has ensured that these historical treasures remain vibrant, allowing both locals and tourists to continue enjoying their beauty for years to come.