The name 'Królikarnia' translates to 'Rabbit House,' originating from the 18th-century rabbit warren established here by King Augustus II the Strong.
The palace was heavily destroyed during World War II and underwent significant reconstruction and restoration in the mid-1960s to become a museum.
Xawery Dunikowski, the museum's namesake, personally donated a large portion of his collection and his studio inventory to the Polish state.
The park surrounding the palace contains a distinct 'Sculpture Park' where works are permanently installed outdoors for public viewing.
The palace layout retains the original neoclassical floor plan, featuring a circular central rotunda that serves as the museum's primary exhibition hall.
The Xawery Dunikowski Museum, located in the 18th-century Królikarnia Palace, serves as a specialized branch of the National Museum in Warsaw dedicated to sculpture. The venue houses a significant collection of works by Xawery Dunikowski, one of Poland's most prominent 20th-century sculptors. The neoclassical palace, designed by Dominik Merlini, is situated within a vast historic park that doubles as an open-air sculpture garden. Visitors can explore both permanent displays of the artist’s oeuvre and rotating temporary contemporary art exhibitions. The museum grounds feature large-scale stone and bronze sculptures integrated into the natural landscape of the surrounding forest and hills. It remains a key cultural site for examining the intersection of classical architecture and modern artistic practice.
The elevated terrace behind the palace, which offers a vista overlooking the park and the Vistula river valley below.
Walk the full length of the park trails to see the integrated outdoor sculptures hidden among the trees.
Check the museum's online calendar for rotating exhibitions, as these often feature contemporary artists who contrast with the permanent collection.
Do not attempt to climb or sit on the outdoor sculptures, as they are fragile historical artifacts.
Closed on Mondays.
Maintain a quiet demeanor inside the palace galleries; refrain from touching the sculptures.
