Monument to John Paul II at "Krzywda" in Piotrków Trybunalski

The monument dedicated to Pope John Paul II stands in the Park Śródmiejski Jana Pawła II, colloquially known as Krzywda, on ulica Juliusza Słowackiego in Piotrków Trybunalski. The park covers 3.5 hectares and was established after the Second World War on the site of five buildings destroyed during bombing in September 1939.

History of Krzywda park

The name Krzywda has deep historical roots. It originates from autumn 1939, from destruction caused by German bombing, symbolising the injustice and losses suffered by Piotrków residents. After the Second World War, these areas began to transform into a municipal park, where successive investments and monuments gradually emerged. In 1963 the Hawana cinema was built, in 1969 the park underwent revitalisation with a fountain, and in 1979 an amphitheatre colloquially called the "egg" was opened – this took place in September during the Polish Harvest Festival.

The significance of John Paul II for Piotrków

John Paul II received the status of Honorary Citizen of Piotrków Trybunalski on 13 October 1999. This honour reflected the pope's deep connections with Polish history and national identity. The monument to the pope was erected after 1979, most probably in the late 1990s or early 21st century, precisely in connection with commemorating his special role as an honorary citizen of the city.

Park as a space of memory and tribute

The monument to John Paul II stands on an artificial mound lined with brick and stone, which adds to its monumentality. Park Śródmiejski contains several monuments, each with its own significance for the city's history: the Monument of Gratitude, the Monument of Friendship and Brotherhood in Arms, and also a distinctive singing bench with a Polish Radio programme. These elements together create a space dedicated to the memory of heroic deeds and gratitude, centrally located between ulica Słowackiego, Narutowicza and Sienkiewicza. The park attracts both tourists and city residents seeking a place for reflection and walks.

Practical information

• Address: ul. Juliusza Słowackiego, Park Śródmiejski Jana Pawła II, Piotrków Trybunalski
• Access hours: park accessible at all times; no formal opening hours
• Getting there: city centre of Piotrków, between ul. Słowackiego, Narutowicza and Sienkiewicza
• What to expect: monument to John Paul II, other monuments in the park, fountain, amphitheatre, singing bench, walks among urban greenery
• Purpose: the park is dedicated to the memory of heroes and to commemorate outstanding figures in Polish history