Elizeum in Warsaw, Underground grotto in Park na Książęcem, Warsaw, Poland.
The Elizeum in Warsaw is an underground brick structure located in Park na Książęcem that features a domed ceiling with ornate stucco decorations. The building is organized through interconnected corridors that surround and lead to a central chamber.
Architect Szymon Bogumił Zug designed this underground pavilion in 1778 as part of a romantic garden complex for nobleman Kazimierz Poniatowski. The structure was built during an era when European pleasure gardens incorporated classical themes and architectural follies.
The name draws from Elysium in Greek mythology, reflecting Enlightenment tastes of the era. The underground structure served aristocratic families as a place for social gatherings and displayed their knowledge of classical culture.
The structure is only open to visitors during special events such as Museum Night and European Heritage Days. Guided tours are offered on these occasions to explain the architectural details and the historic garden layout.
The structure today serves as a hibernation site for bats and newts, making it one of Europe's most important winter shelters for these species. Its stable temperature and moisture conditions provide the perfect environment for these animals to survive the cold months.
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