Located on the banks of the Krzna River, Biała Podlaska is a small but fascinating city in eastern Poland. It was established in 1481 by the Illnicz family and flourished under the control of the Radziwiłł family. During the early 17th century, it became an important centre for education before being attacked by the Cossack and Rakoczi armies as part of the “Deluge”.
Things to do in Biała Podlaska
In the heart of Biała Podlaska is St. Anne’s Church, which was originally constructed in 1572 as a Protestant house of worship. It was reconstructed in the late 16th century by Michał Krzysztof Radziwiłł with its elegant Baroque facade. Nearby is a wooden-built vicar’s house with a shingle roof that dates from the 18th century.
A short walk away is the Radziwiłł Castle Complex, which centres around the remains of a fortification designed as a five-pointed star. It was established in 1633 as a three-story palace before a gate complex and several outbuildings were added. Admire the triumphal arch and Baroque dome of the entrance tower before exploring the barrel-vaulted chapel dedicated to Saint Jozafat Koncewicz.
Within the castle complex is the Museum of Southern Podlasie, which houses religious treasures and archaeological findings from the surrounding region. It boasts the largest collection of Orthodox icons in Poland, as well as impressive numismatic collections. Among the artwork on display are several paintings by the Primitivist painter Bazyli Albiczuk. A larger collection of Polish is showcased at the Galeria Podlaska.
Getting around Biała Podlaska
Biała Podlaska is around two hours’ drive from Warsaw and Warsaw Chopin Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Biała Podlaska railway station and buses travel through the city, connecting most of its attractions. The centre of Biała Podlaska can easily be explored on foot.