Ośrodek Kolonii Letnich
THE ABANDONED SUMMER CAMP IN POLAND
‘Ośrodek Kolonii Letnich’ is an abandoned summer camp resort in Poland. It belonged to one of the largest charity organization in Poland. This decaying complex, frozen in time, now stands as a haunting testament to memories long faded. Let’s step beyond the rusted gates and explore the melancholic beauty of this forgotten place.
The history of these Polish children camps go back to the end of the 19th century. At that time, the camps were used by the poor people from the bigger industrial cities in Poland. During the Polish People’s Republic times the camps were owned by state-companies who offered the employers’ children a vacation in the woods, in the mountains or at sea. In those days, it would be difficult to find a child who had not spent their holidays in summer camps. It was a mass form of recreation for young people.
Every year, several hundred children from Poland and Lithuania enjoyed their holiday here. But also the Polish Scouting, sport clubs and youth organizations contributed to the popularization of summer camps.
Pavilions
The complex consists of several pavilions, a main building, a theater, and a playground. Each pavilion, once a cozy haven for young campers, now harbors only echoes of their laughter. The beds remain, timeworn and sagging, still adorned with threadbare blankets, as if waiting for the return of their youthful occupants. Nature has reclaimed parts of the interiors, weaving tendrils through broken windows and cracked floorboards.
A hidden gem within the camp, is the theater. Its stage once hosted spirited performances by young talents. Above the stage we see the Polish national logo, a proud eagle with outstretched wings, still gazes down, as if urging the ghosts of performers to take their places once more. Beyond the buildings, the playground lies in disarray. Rusty swings sway gently, their chains creaking in the breeze.
I visited ‘Ośrodek Kolonii Letnich’ in 2017. Also check this other nearby summer camp.
