Stary Rynek

Stary Rynek is the main historic square of Pabianice, established probably in the early 14th century. For centuries it was the centre of the city; today, following thorough revitalisation, it is an open public space with benches, greenery and a sculpture of Pabiana, adjoining the oldest heritage sites of Pabianice.

How the square came about

Stary Rynek was established in the early 14th century, following the typical layout of Polish medieval cities, with approximately seven plots on each side of the square. In the 17th century it was the most densely built part of the city, with wooden houses of townspeople and a town hall serving administrative functions. The square's importance began to decline from the 18th century, when Nowy Rynek [New Market] was developing and the city's buildings were shifting westwards. Over subsequent centuries Stary Rynek remained in the memory of residents as the original, historic heart of Pabianice, even though the centre of city life had moved elsewhere.

What revitalisation changed

The renovation of Stary Rynek involved a complete replacement of the square's surface, lighting and rainwater drainage, as well as installation of new benches, planters and fountains and planting of greenery. As part of the works, a concrete monument from the communist period was demolished, allowing the square to gain the character of a more open, welcoming public space for residents.

The sculpture of Pabiana

The symbol of the renovated square is a sculpture of Princess Pabiana, unveiled on 26 October 2024. The work was created by Ewa Maliszewska. The figure's face is covered with a veil, which references the legendary, historically unconfirmed character of Pabiana, to whom the city owes its name according to local legend.

Heritage sites at the square

At Stary Rynek stand two of the city's most important heritage sites. The first is the Church of St. Matthew [kościół św. Mateusza], dating from 1583 to 1588. The second is a former defensive manor of the Kraków chapter [dwór obronny kapituły krakowskiej], also called a castle, erected between 1565 and 1571 and considered the most valuable heritage site in Pabianice. Both buildings together with the square form a historic ensemble at the city's centre.

Practical information

• Address: Stary Rynek, Pabianice
• Access: tram line 41 from Łódź or MZK bus, free admission
• Accessible around the clock, with no formal opening hours
• What to expect: a renovated city square with the sculpture of Pabiana, greenery and fountains, adjacent to the Church of St. Matthew and the former defensive manor of the Kraków chapter