Park Źródliska w Łodzi

Park Źródliska in Łódź is one of the oldest city parks in town and one of the most popular places for a stroll close to the center. It covers about 17.2 hectares between Przędzalniana, Fabryczna, Targowa and Piłsudskiego streets, so it is easy to reach on foot from the downtown area.

How did Źródliska Park begin?

The park dates back to 1840. Forests of the former Łaznów area, which had been absorbed into the growing city, were turned into Łódź's first municipal park, known as the Walking Garden. It was designed by an engineer named Brochocki and followed the principles of the English landscape style: freely winding paths, picturesque groups of trees and open lawns.

In 1850 the grounds were split. The western part, today called Źródliska II, was sold to the industrialist Karol Scheibler, while the eastern part, Źródliska I, stayed in private lease for several years. That is why people speak of Źródliska I and II, even though on a map they form one continuous green space.

What is there to see?

The greatest treasure is the ancient oaks. Some are protected as natural monuments, and their age is estimated at around 300 years. They are among the most valuable trees in all of Łódź and a good reason to slow down and look up at the crowns and trunks.

In the south-east of the park are three ponds, and the largest has an island. Paths run around the water, inviting a calm walk, a rest on a bench or a bit of waterfowl watching.

In the 1920s, Źródliska I received a new look, with new paths, a pond, a botanical garden, a playground and flowerbeds. In the middle of the 20th century, Źródliska II was opened to visitors together with the Palm House, a favorite of anyone who enjoys exotic plants.

Renovation and present-day character

For many years the park, and the ponds in particular, was neglected. The turning point came in the 1990s with a comprehensive modernization: the ponds and paths were recreated, a large children's playground was built and the main avenues were lit. Today it is a well-kept, historic green space where locals jog, push strollers, unwind after work and spend their weekends.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Źródliska Park?

The whole complex covers around 17.2 hectares, enough for a long, relaxed walk with a few stops by the ponds.

Is the park good for families with children?

Yes. It has a large playground, wide lit avenues and plenty of room to rest, which makes it a good choice for a family outing.

What is the most valuable feature of the park?

Mainly the old oaks, some of them protected natural monuments of roughly 300 years of age, as well as the historic layout dating back to 1840.

Why do people talk about Źródliska I and II?

It started as a single Walking Garden, but in 1850 it was divided into a western and an eastern part, which still go by separate names today.

Is there anything else to see nearby?

Yes. The Palm House stands in Źródliska II, and the park lies close to downtown Łódź, so it is easy to combine with sightseeing in the city.

Źródliska Park is a great pick for anyone who wants to see a piece of Łódź's green heritage: old trees, ponds with an island and a historic layout, all a short walk from the center.