A significant investment is underway in the Kostrzyn commune near Poznań. The Mielżyński Palace in Iwno—one of the region’s most historically valuable landmarks—is set to undergo extensive restoration thanks to a 3.5 million PLN grant from the Government Program for Monument Restoration. This initiative marks a new chapter for a site deeply rooted in the history of Greater Poland and long in need of revitalisation.
A Key Heritage Project
The restoration project, led by the company Terlan, focuses on a comprehensive renovation of the palace’s façade. With a total investment of 3.5 million PLN, it represents the highest amount awarded to any project in the Kostrzyn commune through the second edition of the national heritage fund. The funding was secured by the Kostrzyn municipal office, with the Iwno Stud Farm named as the direct beneficiary.
It’s an honour and a considerable responsibility. This restoration gives us the opportunity to combine modern technology with respect for architectural tradition and historical integrity.
Terlan representatives stated on social media.
The project is a collaborative achievement involving local government, heritage professionals, and political stakeholders who supported the grant application.
Historical and Architectural Significance
If you’ve never been to Iwno, it’s worth a visit. It’s a small, quiet village just east of Poznań, known for its 18th-century baroque church, old stud farm buildings, and a peaceful landscape park. Many of the outbuildings from the 1800s and early 1900s are still standing—like the carriage house, stables, and even a former distillery.
The Mielżyński Palace in Iwno, constructed between 1850 and 1857 for Count Józef Mielżyński, is a rare example of 19th-century rural aristocratic architecture in the region. It reflects a romantic neorenaissance style, with a distinctly asymmetrical layout—unusual for Greater Poland—and was most likely designed by Seweryn Mielżyński, the owner’s uncle and an amateur architect.
The palace features a central two-story section flanked by side pavilions, classical porticos, and richly ornamented façades. Its north-facing garden elevation includes an elegant arcaded portico and terrace overlooking a 21-hectare landscape park, complete with ponds, tree-lined paths, and a small island locally known as “Napoleon’s Hill.”
The building’s interior once housed one of the most refined neorenaissance ballrooms in the region, featuring a high vaulted ceiling, intricate stucco decoration, and heraldic motifs referencing the historical union of Poland and Lithuania.
A Legacy of Agriculture and Equestrian Excellence
Beyond its architectural merit, the Mielżyński Palace in Iwno stands as a symbol of regional economic and agricultural history. In the early 20th century, Count Ignacy Mielżyński significantly expanded both the residence and the estate’s stud farm, specialising in English thoroughbreds. By 1916, Iwno had become the second-largest horse-breeding centre in Greater Poland, regularly supplying horses for military use.
The estate’s reputation drew notable guests, including opera singer Jan Kiepura and Queen Juliana of the Netherlands. During World War II, the palace was converted into a military hospital, and its horses were relocated in 1945. The stud farm resumed operations under state ownership until the early 1990s, and since 1995 has been privately run by Stadnina Koni Iwno Sp. z o.o.
Current State and Vision for the Future
Although the Mielżyński Palace in Iwno has been officially listed as a protected monument since 1968 and has undergone several partial renovations, it has long required substantial conservation. In recent years, it ceased hosting events and has remained closed to the public. The upcoming renovation will focus on restoring the façade and exterior elements, with long-term hopes for further revitalisation of the interiors and potential public access.
The estate is still operational as a stud farm, and the park grounds—featuring the former orangery, gardener’s house, and 19th-century outbuildings—remain an attractive location for heritage tourism. Visitors to the village can explore the surrounding park, admire the palace from the outside, and discover preserved equestrian infrastructure, including stables, training facilities, and housing built for farm workers.
Notably, in 1974, the area gained national attention as the filming location for the popular Polish television series Karino, set on the grounds of the Iwno stud farm.
An Investment in Local Heritage
The 3.5M PLN investment in the Mielżyński Palace in Iwno is an important step in preserving the region’s cultural and architectural legacy. With solid funding, skilled local contractors, and community support, this place has a real shot at becoming a highlight of the region’s tourism map. The Mielżyński Palace in Iwno is coming back to life—and that’s something worth celebrating!
