Iglica

The Iglica (Needle) is a steel mast-shaped observation tower standing in Wrocław right next to the Centennial Hall, one of the city's most recognisable symbols alongside the Hall itself. Today it measures 90.3 metres, though at the time of its construction it was considerably taller.

Built for the Exhibition of the Recovered Territories

The Iglica was erected in 1948 for the Exhibition of the Recovered Territories. The structure was designed by Professor Stanisław Hempel and built by the Mostostal company. The steel tower weighed 44 tonnes and was meant to symbolise the rebirth of life in the territories incorporated into Poland after the war. It originally stood 106 metres tall, with construction based on a twelve-segment steel structure supported on a three-legged base anchored deep in the ground. At the top a rotating, umbrella-shaped disc with eight mirrors was fitted, electrically driven, intended to create nighttime light effects.

Damage and further rebuildings

Shortly after assembly, in a storm on 20 July 1948, the mirror system at the top was damaged. Its dismantling was carried out by climbers Wojciech Niedziałek and Zbigniew Jaworowski, who on 12-13 October used rope techniques then still unknown in Poland. The structure was subsequently maintained three more times: in 1964 it was lowered to 96 metres, in 1979 it was shortened by a further 5.7 metres without full documentation being kept, and in 2016 its current height of 90.3 metres was confirmed.

Symbol of the city

The Iglica has become one of Wrocław's recognisable symbols, alongside the Centennial Hall standing right next to it. In 2007 it served as the tallest Christmas tree in Europe. The tower has also witnessed political events: during martial law, activists hung a Solidarity flag from its top, and in 2008 demonstrators hung a Tibetan flag on it as a gesture of solidarity.

Heritage protection

The Iglica is entered in the register of immovable heritage monuments as a metal structure with the function of a mast, dated to 1948.

Nearby

The Iglica stands in the exhibition complex by the Centennial Hall, right next to the Japanese Garden and the entrance to Szczytnicki Park. The Afrykarium and the Wrocław Zoo are also nearby.

Practical information

• Address: Wystawowa 1, Wrocław, Biskupin-Sępolno-Dąbie-Bartoszowice district.
• The Iglica stands in an open area by the Centennial Hall, available to view from outside.
• It is worth combining the visit with a tour of the Centennial Hall and the Japanese Garden next door.
• It is worth checking the access hours for the area around the Iglica before your visit.