Jelenia Góra's Town Hall (Ratusz w Jeleniej Górze) is an architectural gem in the heart of the Old Town and shapes the character of the historic Market Square (Plac Ratuszowy). Here are the key details:
🏛️ Architecture & History
Built: Between 1747 and 1749, after a devastating fire.
Style: Baroque with neoclassical elements – particularly evident in the symmetrical façade and the clock tower.
Arcades: The ground floor is surrounded by arcades, formerly used as commercial spaces and now home to cafés and shops.
Tower: The clock tower with its Baroque cap is a striking eye-catcher and formerly served as a fire station.
🏙️ Function & Use
Municipality: Seat of the mayor and the city administration of Jelenia Góra.
Events: Venue for receptions, exhibitions, and cultural ceremonies.
Tourism: Popular starting point for city tours and meeting point for visitors.
🎨 Surroundings & Sights
Directly on Plac Ratuszowy, surrounded by:
Neptune Fountain – a baroque monument to trade and cosmopolitanism
Sculpture "Szczudlarz Jeleniogórski" – stilt walker by Vahan Bego
Arcade Houses – colorful town houses with historic facades
Deer sculptures – the city's heraldic animal
📸 Special Features
The Town Hall is one of the most photogenic buildings in the city – especially at sunset or during the Christmas market.
It symbolizes civic self-government and the historical importance of Jelenia Góra as a trading center.