Places to see in Warsaw: University Library Garden

The Warsaw University Library garden, designed by Irena Bajerska, was opened on June 12, 2002. It is one of the largest and most beautiful roof gardens in Europe with an area of more than 10,000 m2, and plants covering 5,111 m2. The garden consists of two parts: an upper garden (2,000 m2) and a lower one (15,000 m2). Both are connected by a stream and cascade of water.

In the lower garden, next to the Library are planted covering and flowering shrubs as well as climbers. The two greatest attractions of the open space - the fish pond and the artificial stone with a small fountain - are connected by the stream. The visitors may often see ducks swimming in, or walking around the pond. Trees, shrubs, and perennials are found in shades of blue and pinkish-white. In the lower garden you can find granite sculptures by Ryszard Stryjecki. His series "Szkic sytuacyjny" ("Situational Sketch") refers to cosmological motifs.

The upper garden consists of plants in a layer of soil (30 cm. deep) on the Library roof. It is divided into four parts, differentiated according to form, color, and character. All segments of the garden are interconnected with paths, bridges, and pergolas. From the bridges and the view terrace on the roof one may see a panorama of Warsaw and the Vistula river. Visitors may also look into the Library through both the special windows and glass roof.