Architecture and Architects in Socialist Poland

Introduction

The book presents the history of Polish architecture and architects in the years 1944-1989, focusing on selected issues, including both the development of architecture itself and the conditions of practicing architecture in the socialist country.

Perspective and Sources

The history of architecture and architects in socialist Poland is described not only from the perspective of an architectural historian and researcher but also from the perspective of active participants in the events described. The text is based on historical sources and literature, as well as on numerous interviews with architects and urban planners who played an important role in post-war reconstruction, implementation of the socialist-realist doctrine, creation of the most significant buildings and monuments, and development of the local version of socialist modernism or post-modernism. It gives the floor back to those whose voice was hardly heard after the collapse of the socialist system in 1989.

Relevance and Use

The book should become an interesting source of information for those interested in the material culture of former socialist countries. Although it focuses on socialist Poland, it can be used as material for comparative studies of mutual relations between East and West in post-war Europe, as well as for analysis of the situation of architecture and architects in socialist countries.