Monument to Józef Piłsudski

The monument dedicated to Marshal Józef Piłsudski stands on Plac Wolności in Bełchatów, the principal initiator of Poland's recovery of independence. The sculpture was unveiled on 11 November 2018, marking the centenary of Poland's recovery of independence, in the renovated patriotic sector of Plac Wolności.

The sculpture and its creation

The monument was created by sculptors György Lantos and István Máté from the Hungarian city of Csongrád. The sculpture is 2.2 metres in height, executed in bronze on a granite plinth, and although its dimensions are not particularly large, thanks to proper proportions and placement it appears life-size. Marshal Piłsudski is depicted in full military uniform, leaning on a sabre, which emphasises his role as a commander and military leader. The style of the sculpture combines realistic representation with symbolism of strength and determination, becoming an important landmark on Plac Wolności.

Piłsudski as honorary citizen of Bełchatów

Józef Piłsudski is the first Honorary Citizen of Bełchatów, which emphasises the significance of this figure for the city and all of Poland. The granite plinth of the monument bears an inscription: On the centenary of Poland's recovery of independence, to Marshal Józef Piłsudski, Honorary Citizen of the City - the inhabitants of Bełchatów. The unveiling ceremony on 11 November 2018 was initiated by Tomasz Trawiński (Honorary Citizen) and Marian Wójcik (Distinguished for the City). It was noted that the monument marks the symbolic return of Marshal Józef Piłsudski to our city.

The road to erecting the monument

The Social Committee for the Construction of the Statue of Marshal Józef Piłsudski was established in June 2017, demonstrating public mobilisation around this initiative. Nearly half a year later, in November of that year, the monument became reality. The process from the establishment of the committee to the unveiling of the monument demonstrates the commitment of Bełchatów's inhabitants to commemorating distinguished figures in Polish history. The monument gained particular significance, as it was unveiled during celebrations marking the anniversary of the recovery of independence, giving it patriotic importance at the national level.

Practical information

• Address: Plac Wolności 11, 97-400 Bełchatów
• Access: the monument is located on a public square, accessible 24 hours a day
• Getting there: Plac Wolności in the centre of Bełchatów, accessible on foot from any side of the square, easily accessible for tourists and residents
• What to expect: bronze monument to Marshal Piłsudski, public square, landmark in the city
• Related sites: nearby are the Monument to Adam Mickiewicz in Bełchatów and the Theatre in Bełchatów