Oliwa Park

Overview

Oliwa Park (Park Oliwski) is a beautifully landscaped garden surrounding Oliwa Cathedral, blending formal French garden sections with romantic English-style pastoral grounds. Shaded by centuries-old trees, the park features ornamental ponds, a botanical garden section, and seasonal flower displays.

Highlights

• French Garden: Symmetrical parterres with clipped hedges and a central avenue of lime trees.
• Whispering Grotto: A small artificial grotto where whispers carry across the stone chamber.
• Peacocks: Semi-wild peacocks roam the park freely, adding to its enchanting atmosphere.

History

The park was established by Cistercian monks in the 18th century on the grounds of their monastery. After secularization, it became a public park and was expanded in the 19th century with English landscape sections.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Visit in May–June when the rhododendrons and roses are in bloom.
• Tip 2: Pair with a visit to Oliwa Cathedral and the nearby zoo for a full day in Oliwa.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.