Jan Kiepura owned the 'Patria' hotel in Krynica-Zdrój, which was considered one of the most modern and luxurious buildings in Poland during the 1930s.
Kiepura was known for singing from the balconies of his hotels to reach the crowds below, a gesture often associated with his populist appeal.
The monument was officially unveiled in 1999 to coincide with the ongoing traditions of the Jan Kiepura Festival held annually in the town.
Kiepura's wife, the singer Marta Eggerth, frequently visited Krynica alongside him, solidifying the couple's status as cultural icons of the region.
The Pomnik Jana Kiepury is a bronze monument located in the resort town of Krynica-Zdrój, commemorating the renowned Polish tenor and actor Jan Kiepura. Sculpted by Zbigniew Bednarz, the statue captures Kiepura in a characteristic singing pose, honoring his deep historical connection to the town. Krynica-Zdrój served as a summer retreat for Kiepura, who frequently performed in the local spa facilities during the interwar period. The monument stands as a central tribute to his legacy as a global opera star and his role in promoting the resort. It is situated in the heart of the spa district, integrated into the town’s pedestrian-friendly promenade. The statue reflects the aesthetic of 20th-century commemorative sculpture in Polish public spaces.
Stand slightly to the side of the monument to capture both the statue's profile and the greenery of the surrounding spa park in the background.
Visit during the annual Jan Kiepura Festival in August for a chance to see local performances taking place near the monument.
Combine your visit with a walk along the Krynica-Zdrój promenade to view other spa-related historical architecture.
Look for the nearby plaque or information board which often provides historical context about Kiepura's presence in the town.
Do not mistake the monument for the nearby Patria Hotel, which is a private building and not open for general tours.
