The Prince's Park in Zatonie - An Oasis of Calm and History
When you hear "Zatonie," you think "walk!" The ruins in Zatonie and the palace park surrounding them are one of the favorite walking spots for the residents of Zielona Góra. It's no wonder, as a stroll along the renovated paths of this 52-hectare park is truly enjoyable and a chance to relax.
Discover Zatonie's Treasures
The main highlight of Zatonie is the ruins of a 17th-century palace that greet us right at the entrance to the park. As you walk further along the picturesque paths, you encounter the beautiful Rose Temple and the stunning nature, dominated by wild garlic - a symbol of the park. This atmospheric setting allows one to transport their thoughts to past times and feel the ambiance of bygone eras.
Cycle to the Park and Enjoy Coffee at the Orangery
You can safely reach the park by bicycle via the bike path leading from Zielona Góra. Regardless of your mode of transportation, it is worth visiting the palace orangery, where you can enjoy aromatic coffee and delicious desserts in the café. After sunset, the park takes on a special charm thanks to the colorful illumination of the ruins.
The History of Zatonie Park
Zatonie, formerly a village located 10 km from the center of Zielona Góra and first mentioned in 1305, was incorporated into the city in 2015. The park's history dates back to the 17th century when Baltazar von Unruh built a Baroque manor. It's likely that the first garden layout was established during this time. The most significant influence on the park's development came from Duchess Dorothea de Talleyrand-Périgord, who decided to rebuild the palace and expand the garden after a visit by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV in 1841.
A Famous German Planner in Zatonie
The first preserved plan for the park, designed by prominent German planner Peter Lenné, dates back to the mid-19th century. The park spanned approximately 32 hectares, with its heart being the great Johanna meadow. Three main viewing axes led from the northern facade of the palace towards the Gardener's Cottage, the Great Pond, and the hill with the rose pavilion.
A Return to Former Glory
In the second half of the 20th century, the park area began to fall into neglect. However, thanks to the efforts of the local community, it has been restored to its former glory. The revitalization completed in 2020 made the Zatonie Prince's Park an exceptional attraction in Zielona Góra. The park looks impressive in every season, but it's especially worth visiting in spring when the scent of wild garlic fills the air.
Practical Information
Currently covering 29.04 hectares, Zatonie Prince's Park was originally established as a park for the Zatonie palace by Peter Lenné in 1842 at the initiative of Dorothea de Talleyrand-Périgord. Within its grounds are the ruins of the palace, which was burned in 1945, and a lime tree avenue. In the 19th century, the park had a Franco-Italian character with fountains, grottos, and statues. It was designated a nature reserve in 1958, but in 1992, its status as a historic park was restored.
The park's and palace ruins' revitalization completed in 2020 has turned this location into a unique tourist attraction, blending history with modernity.