"Zachęta" is considered the most prestigious and the largest art gallery in Poland. It is located in a building that you just want to call a palace. This classical Renaissance-style building was erected in 1898-1900. 55 years later, another wing was added to it, thus fully realizing the architect's original plan.
Today, the national gallery hosts not only permanent but also temporary, themed exhibitions. For example, here you can find works dedicated to Poland's postwar art. In addition to paintings by famous Polish masters such as Jan Matejko, Józef Brandt, Wojciech Gerson and others, "Zachęta" also exhibits works by well-known European artists.
By the way, it is the "Zachęta" gallery that hosts the prestigious World Press Photo competition. In addition, seminars and conferences for art figures, concerts, and presentations of new books are held here. Artists often organize master classes in the gallery halls, helping to discover new talents.
The building also houses a large bookstore selling art literature, colorful catalogs, and collectible editions.
