Bielsko-Biała palace renovation completed

Conservation work on the former palace of architect Emanuel Rost junior in Bielsko-Biała has concluded after approximately 18 months. The building, which currently serves as the headquarters for the Pedagogical Provincial Library, underwent a comprehensive renovation costing 7.35 million PLN, funded by the Silesian Voivodeship local government.

The restoration included repairing the roof structure, replacing the roof covering with copper, cleaning and painting the facade, and replacing external windows. Foundations and basements were also secured against moisture. During the process, workers discovered previously unknown features within the building, including a well, a mysterious column, and the architect’s private bathroom.

Emanuel Rost junior, who designed the Bielsko-Biała Town Hall, built the neo-Baroque-Secessionist palace in the early 20th century. The property remained with the Rost family until 1945, after which it served various administrative and educational purposes before becoming a library in 1979.