As a thank-you for your support:
The print run will be limited – only 500 copies – making this a unique and collectible publication. Over 30 copies will be donated free of charge to public libraries in Poland and abroad.
Please place your orders by email at: sklep@eduardpetzold.eu
Garden and horticultural museums constitute a unique yet still underexplored group of cultural institutions. Their role in documenting, safeguarding, and popularising garden heritage is becoming particularly significant in the context of contemporary environmental challenges. This study aimed to identify the scale of this phenomenon and capture the most noteworthy curatorial practices, thereby addressing a gap in the existing literature. Its original contribution lies in combining geographical, thematic, and institutional analysis with in-depth case studies of selected museums representing diverse profiles and narrative approaches.
The research was based on a comparative analysis of more than 50 institutions worldwide, 34 of which are located in Europe. The source material included academic publications, digital resources, and observations of exhibitions conducted between 2018 and 2024. The case studies examine in detail the Museum of Chinese Gardens and Landscape Architecture in Beijing, the Garden Museum in London, the Museum of Garden Art in Eckersdorf, the European Museum of Garden Art in Düsseldorf, the Austrian Horticultural Museum in Vienna, and the Garden History Centre in Somerset.
The findings demonstrate that garden and horticultural museums fulfil a role that extends far beyond the traditional collecting and displaying of objects. They are becoming active guardians of green heritage, combining a variety of curatorial practices—from conventional museum displays to contemporary, immersive forms that engage the senses and employ digital technologies, enabling visitors to experience the garden as a multilayered and symbolic space. In the face of global challenges—including the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and landscape degradation—these museums play a key role in safeguarding garden heritage and preserving the memory of gardens as bearers of universal values.
The text is available exclusively in Polish.
ISBN: 978-83-68928-05-1
The aim of this article is to answer the question of how the “memory landscape” of Eduard Petzold – one of the most eminent European garden designers of the nineteenth century – has been shaped from the late nineteenth century to the present day, and which narratives, practices, and material forms have determined his presence in social consciousness. The paper addresses a research gap by shifting the focus from the analysis of his design output to a reflection on the mechanisms of commemoration. Its original contribution lies in a synthetic juxtaposition of diverse forms of memory: writings, botanical nomenclature, commemorative sites, and contemporary initiatives and projects inspired by his legacy. The results demonstrate that the memory of Eduard Petzold has developed as a dynamic process based on selection, negotiation of meanings, and changing hierarchies of values, rather than as a straightforward record of his achievements. The analysis of the memory landscape reveals the mechanisms through which the history of landscape architecture reproduces, modifies, or marginalises the figures of its creators, thereby exposing the cultural and institutional conditions underlying the formation of its canons.
The full text is also available for download on the Polish Journal of Landscape Studies website.
The article is available exclusively in Polish.
The article presents Lower Silesia as a region rich in “green capital” – an abundance of historic gardens and parks that can become a driving force for modern tourism development. The author emphasizes that these unique spaces are not only witnesses of history, but also places for relaxation, education, and strengthening local identity. In an era of growing interest in garden tourism – a sector rapidly expanding worldwide – the green heritage of Lower Silesia holds immense, still underutilized potential.
A central example is the concept of the Landscape Complex of Residences and Gardens of the Włodzica Valley. This innovative project combines heritage protection with tourism, education, and the activation of local communities. The picturesque valley, rich in historic residences, parks, and traces of past eras, has the potential to become a model site for landscape revitalization and cross-border cooperation.
The article demonstrates that well-managed historic gardens can attract visitors, support local economies, and strengthen social bonds. Lower Silesia has all the qualities needed to become a leader in garden tourism in Poland – a place where history, nature, and a modern approach to development create a cohesive and inspiring whole.
The full text is also available for download on the Cyfrowy Dolny Śląsk platform.
The article is available exclusively in Polish.
The article discusses the design of a private orangery by Joachim Daniel Jauch, Director of the Royal Building Office in Warsaw, in the context of the “citrus fever” of the reign of Augustus II the Strong. In the first half of the eighteenth century, fascination with exotic nature and the collecting of plants – especially citrus trees – became an important element in the representation of power and prestige. Royal patronage stimulated the development of orangery culture, inspiring high-ranking officials to establish their own collections as well.
Jauch’s design from 1722–1730 presents a rectangular building (approx. 30 × 10 m) with a central heated hall intended for overwintering plants. The interior layout was subordinated to practical functions: it included a kitchen, storage rooms, servants’ quarters, and a residential section that could also serve as accommodation for the owner or guests. The façade was restrained in character, articulated by a nine-axis division and a decorative cartouche bearing the monogram “JDJ.” An analysis of the plans suggests that the building may have been constructed at the residence in Solec. The project testifies to Jauch’s passion for gardening and his architectural expertise.
The article is available exclusively in German.
The article focuses on the analysis and visualization of a so-called swan-neck greenhouse design dating from the late 18th or early 19th century, preserved in the collections of the Jagiellonian Library in Kraków. The author points out that research on orangery culture in Poland remains fragmentary and is largely based on studies of individual sites, while comprehensive works and in-depth analyses of archival materials are still lacking.
The discussed drawing combines features of a technical plan with an extensive functional description. It presents a building divided into a greenhouse section and a pineapple house, equipped with a channel heating system and ventilation solutions, which demonstrates the high level of technical knowledge of the designer. The author provides a detailed analysis of the spatial layout, structure, and heating system, and then attempts to reconstruct the building’s appearance based on comparisons with other European examples.
The article is available exclusively in German.
The text presents the profile of Eduard Petzold (1815–1891), one of the most outstanding European landscape architects of the 19th century. He was the designer and steward of more than 170 gardens and parks in many European countries, including Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands. A key role in his career was played by Muskau Park, designed by Prince Hermann von Pückler, where Petzold gained experience and which he later managed for many years. This park, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, became one of the most important achievements of his professional life.
Petzold combined design practice with theoretical reflection, drawing inspiration from educational journeys across Europe and from the ideas of English designers, especially Humphry Repton. He published works on landscape architecture and color theory, as well as the first biography of Prince Pückler. His parks can still be admired in many countries today. In 2024, the Eduard Petzold Foundation was established with the aim of preserving his legacy and creating the Eduard Petzold European Centre for Garden Art.
The article is available exclusively in German.
This leaflet was produced as part of the project “Lubniewice Gallery of Personalities – Eduard Petzold”, the aim of which was to explore important historical facts and figures connected with Lubniewice.
The project was jointly carried out by the Lubniewica Historical Association, the project’s initiator, and the Eduard Petzold Foundation.
As part of the project, on 18 October 2025, with the support of volunteers, institutions, and private entrepreneurs, a pocket park with a viewing point – “Petzold’s Retreat” – was created along the promenade by Lake Lubiąż in Lubniewice. The granite “Petzold Bench” was recreated, made, and funded by the Strzegom Granit company, thanks to the generosity of Magdalena Jawilak and Jan Jawilak.
The project was held under the patronage of the Mayor of Lubniewice, who involved the resources and support of the Lubniewice Municipality and its institutions: the Library and Cultural Centre and the Municipal Utility Services.
The project was co-financed by the “Act Locally” Programme of the Polish-American Freedom Foundation, implemented by the Academy for the Development of Philanthropy in Poland.
The leaflet is available only in Polish.
After 1945, the dictionary of garden designers active in Poland was enriched with dozens of names. One of them is Carl Hampel, the creator of the extensive rearrangement of the Spa Park in Duszniki-Zdrój carried out between 1886 and 1899. The design he developed in 1886, along with detailed descriptions of his conceptual intentions, provided the impetus for a deeper understanding of his methods and oeuvre. Hampel’s approach, shaped by the work of prominent landscape architects such as Peter Joseph Lenné and Gustav Meyer, bestowed upon the Spa Park in Duszniki-Zdrój the purest possible expression of the mixed style. In selected areas of the park, one can discern numerous borrowings, notably from gardens such as Sanssouci in Potsdam.
The article is available exclusively in Polish.
ISBN: 978-83-975780-0-5
“Even in the garden area near the palace, we can allow actions that would increase biodiversity – it’s enough to reduce the frequency of lawn mowing. We should also give up striving for the precision of a manicurist when raking fallen leaves,” says Łukasz Przybylak, chair of the Eduard Petzold Foundation. In a conversation with Jarosław Trybuś, he talks about the study and conservation of historic gardens and restoration work in the gardens of the Presidential Palace in Warsaw. We encourage you to subscribe to Spotkania z Zabytkami on the quarterly’s website.
ISSN: 0137-222x
Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau (1785–1871) is a figure of many facets – an aristocrat, traveler, gardener, and writer, who made an enormous contribution to the development of landscape gardens. Thanks to his passion and achievements, he earned the title of the “Green Prince”. His masterpieces, such as the parks in Muskau and Branitz, still captivate with their remarkable composition. The biography compiled by his disciple, Eduard Petzold, is a fascinating journey through the gardens of the 19th century, shaped by the artistic sensitivity and boundless imagination of their creators.
The book, published on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the original German publication, aims to be not only a tribute to the prince’s legacy but also a source of inspiration for future generations of garden art enthusiasts. Contemporary texts included in the biography introduce the reader to the broader cultural and historical context of the era and explain the intricacies of garden creation by Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau and Eduard Petzold.
The book is available only in Polish for purchase in the Sarny Castle (price: 63 PLN) and the Branitz Palace. Published with the financial support of the Foundation for Polish-German Cooperation.
Translations from German: Jowita Selewska
Content editing: Łukasz Przybylak, Jacek Kuśmierski
Language editing: Magdalena Petryna
Graphic design and layout: Idalia Smyczyńska, Robert Zając (kilku.com)
Published: 2024
Pages: 156
ISBN: 978-83-959914-4-8
The history of Central European gardens is linked to people’s aspirations for tranquillity and optimal health. An exceptional example of this are the green areas in spas designed in the 18th and 19th centuries, with rich and functional furnishings complementing the design. We encourage you to subscribe to the quarterly “Herito” on the website of the International Cultural Centre in Krakow.
ISSN 2082-310X
Over more than four centuries, the Sarny Castle has evolved from a modest Renaissance defensive manor house, to one of the most important residences in the Kłodzko County. Its purchase was even of interest to the Save Britain’s Heritage foundation, operating under the patronage of Charles, late Prince of Wales. Since 2013, the entire complex has been looked after by the Sarny Castle Trust, which is restoring it to its former glory. The lavishly illustrated guide takes an accessible look at the history of the building and its former owners. In addition, it contains detailed descriptions of the Castle, the Gate House, St. John of Nepomuk Chapel, the park and the Eduard Petzold European Centre for Garden Art.
The guide is available exclusively in Polish for purchase in the Sarny Castle Café and Restaurant.
Published: 2022
Pages: 34
ISBN: 978-83-64399-50-3
The catalogue presents 40 sites designed by landscape architects in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland and Hungary in 2010-2015. Among them, you can find excellent examples of parks, historic gardens, urban spaces, roof gardens, boulevards, furniture and playgrounds. This catalogue accompanied the exhibition held at the Sarny Castle from 17 July to 30 November 2023, organised as part of the collaboration between the Eduard Petzold European Centre for Garden Art and the Association of Landscape Architecture – Poland (SAK).
Published: 2015
Pages: 56
File size: 13,8 MB
The Sarny Castle in Ścinawka Górna is one of the largest historical residences in Lower Silesia. It is accompanied by an extremely valuable landscaped park by the eminent designer Eduard Petzold, which inspired the establishment of the first garden art centre in Poland – the Eduard Petzold European Centre for Garden Art.
The article is available only in Polish.
ISSN: 0137-222X
In October 2020, the European Route of Historic Gardens was certified by the Council of Europe. This was not only a great honour, but also an important step in recognising the historic, artistic, social and natural values of historic green spaces. Admission to the Cultural Route of the Council of Europe has also opened up opportunities to participate in various projects promoting culture and tourism at the international level. What could be the role of the European Route of Historic Gardens in this regard? How can it be involved in the implementation of the European Union’s cultural policy? This paper seeks to find answers to these questions.
The book published by the Sarny Castle Trust and the Eduard Petzold European Centre for Garden Art, under the patronage of the European Route of Historic Gardens.
Published: 2021
Pages: 56
File size: 5 MB
ISBN: 978-83-959914-3-1
Garden art consists of a wide spectrum of artistic phenomena and technical solutions related to the composition of greenery. It constitutes one of the integral elements of Europe’s rich heritage and a living record of its timeless values. For at least two centuries, historic gardens have been an object of care of conservators and historians who strive to preserve their artistic, historical, scientific and natural values. They were joined by museologists who perpetuate the memory of the gardens through, inter alia, collecting and processing museum exhibits, providing access to collections, as well as curatorial and educational activities.
Book was published under the patronage of the European Route of Historic Gardens, on the occasion of the establishment of the Eduard Petzold European Centre for Garden Art by the Sarny Castle Trust in 2020.
Published: 2020
Pages: 67
File size: 6 MB
ISBN: 978-83-959914-1-7
Plans for a new garden museum in Poland inspired its co-founder to explore some of Europe’s other examples. An account of his visits to the Garden Museum in London, the Garden Museum at Fantaisie Palace in Eckersdorf, Bavaria and the Museum of European Garden Art at Benrath Palace in Düsseldorf was published in the international magazine ‘Historic Gardens Review’. We encourage you to subscribe on the website of the Historic Gardens Foundation.
ISSN: 1461-0191