Pomnik Praskiej Kapeli Podwórkowej (Monument of Praga's Backyard Orchestra), Warsaw

The Monument to Praga’s Backyard Orchestra is a cheerful tribute to the street musicians who once filled Warsaw with popular songs.

Take a closer look at the five bronze figures arranged as a traditional neighborhood band. You can identify a violinist, an accordion player, a guitarist, a banjo player, and a drummer. Together, they represent the small musical groups that performed in courtyards, at markets, and during local celebrations, bringing entertainment directly to ordinary residents.

The idea for the monument came from Archbishop Sławoj Leszek Głódź as a token of gratitude for him being made the honorary citizen of Warsaw. The archbishop thus wanted to offer something in return to the city and supported the creation of a memorial celebrating Praga’s local musical traditions.

Sculptor Andrzej Renes designed the group, and the monument was unveiled on September 17, 2006. The opening ceremony reflected the spirit of the sculpture itself, with several real backyard bands, including Kapela Praska and the Różyce Orchestra, performing live.

The monument originally had an interactive feature. Visitors could send a text message and choose from around one hundred recordings, including wartime songs and well-known Warsaw tunes. Although the system no longer works, the figures still capture the character of these lively neighborhood musicians.

As you walk around the monument, notice the relaxed poses and individual instruments. The group seems ready to begin playing at any moment, preserving a musical tradition closely associated with the working-class courtyards of Praga.