Konopnica tenement house in Lublin

The Konopnica tenement house is a three-story structure with a limestone facade featuring plant ornaments, dragon heads, and portraits of its original owners Sebastian Konopnica and Katarzyna. The building occupies a central position in Lublin's Market Square and blends Mannerist design with practical residential spaces.

After the major fire of 1575 destroyed much of Lublin's Old Town, this building was reconstructed in the 1580s with Mannerist architectural features. The reconstruction reflected the city's recovery and the renewed prosperity of its merchant class.

The ornate stone carvings and portraits on the facade reflect the wealth and status of the merchants who lived here during Lublin's prosperous years. These decorative details were a way for successful traders to display their importance in the community.

The building is located at Rynek 12 in Lublin's Old Town and sits directly on the Market Square for easy access. You can visit the ground floor restaurant without needing special permission, though note that portions of the structure serve as a kindergarten.

During restoration work in 2004, workers discovered that the original facade was painted in a distinctive azure blue color that had been hidden for centuries. This striking blue tone makes the building immediately recognizable when walking through the Market Square.