The Belvedere was Grand Duke Constantine’s residence, and another venue where Fryderyk Chopin’s piano playing was much admired. As a teenager, the musician was invited there regularly to entertain the Duke and Duchess. Fryderyk dedicated a military march to the Duke, so well-liked that it was later played at military parades.
The young Fryderyk must have been greatly impressed by his visits to the Belvedere. The palace staff were all cherry-picked servants and valets; some were of tremendous height, others were midgets. The Belvedere grounds were cared for by petty criminals. The sight must have been moving, as they performed their duties in shackles.
Belvedere is a small palace with an imposing view, hence the name: the Italian phrase bel vedere means “a beautiful view”. Marshal Józef Piłsudski resided at the palace in the years 1926-1935. Today, the Belvedere is owned by the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland. It is here that the head of state receives guests, and that important conferences and debates are held.
Two exhibitions are available for viewing at the Belvedere: “Marshal Józef Piłsudski” and “The Office of the War Order of Virtuti Military .”
