Zwinger

The Zwinger was not residential, but only of a representative nature, and served as a gallery for storing valuable royal collections and for holding lavish court ceremonies.

An excerpt from the article 12 facts about Zwinger

The complex contains six stored pavilions (Clock, German, Porcelain, Embankment, French, Mathematical, and Physical), connected by one-story galleries. The pavilions are situated around a large rectangular courtyard.

The complex is accessed by an entrance gate built in 1714-1718, called Kronentor. It is modeled on works of the late Italian Baroque. It is decorated with sculptures alluding to the myth of Hercules. The gate’s finial features the coat of arms of the Republic and four eagles supporting the Polish royal crown.

In 2012-2016, the Kronentor underwent a restoration at €650.000.