Kazimierz historic tenements to be converted into luxury hotel

Historic tenement buildings located on Józefa and Bożego Ciała streets in Kraków’s Kazimierz district are slated to be converted into a five-star luxury hotel. The property is owned by the Order of Canons Regular of the Lateran in Kraków and leased to the developer De Silva Haus.

The investment plan involves evicting current residents and closing existing commercial premises, including the well-known Eszeweria café. This has triggered significant social opposition and ongoing protests since early this year.

Despite inspections by the State Building Supervision Inspectorate revealing severe technical issues—including collapsed ceilings, damaged chimneys posing safety risks, and balconies at risk of falling—the Małopolska Provincial Conservator of Monuments has declined to conduct an independent technical inspection. The Conservator’s office stated that commercial use and a comprehensive renovation are the most effective ways to ensure the buildings' financial security and long-term preservation. This decision has drawn criticism from local councilors and the community, who argue that conservation authorities have a duty to inspect and issue recommendations when historic sites are at risk of further deterioration.