Once bustling with life, today it stands empty. This is Zakopane's old favorite.
The facility in question is known as Sanato. Located on Wierchowa Street in Zakopane, it's deserted. It was built in 1912 to serve as a sanatorium for tuberculosis patients, but the authorities ultimately rejected its use. Initially, it housed a luxurious guesthouse, which eventually transformed into a treatment center. In 1928, the building was purchased by the Union of Postal, Telegraph, and Telephone Employees, and years later, it was occupied by the Ministry of Health. In 1985, it was renamed the "Postworkers'" Sanatorium for Lung Diseases and Tuberculosis. Today, it's little more than a memory.
This guesthouse used to be a hitWhat did the Sanato guesthouse look like and what exactly did it offer? It's certain that it was situated in a beautiful mountain location, surrounded by exceptional views – the building was built on Antałówka Hill, overlooking Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. The place was a symbol of luxury. Today, although empty, its former splendor can be seen – large windows, expansive balconies, steep roofs, and a garden.
Press articles from the 1920s describe vacationers as having central heating, elevators, and the latest technology. The guesthouse was considered one of the most modern of its kind in the country.
This was also a good thing when the place functioned as a sanatorium. "The cuisine is meticulous, healthy, and plentiful. The hygienic and sanitary facilities are in excellent condition. Prices for private individuals range from 9 to 12 złoty per day, including medical care," wrote "Strzelec" in 1934.
Interestingly, while many abandoned buildings in Poland simply fall into disrepair, this one is set to be given a new lease on life. This news has been circulating for some time now. A state-of-the-art Podhale hotel is soon to be built on the site of the Sanato hotel in Zakopane. Core Development will be handling the entire project, with the Bernatowicz Architektura studio responsible for the concept.
According to the project announcements, the building will be meticulously restored to its former glory. The five-star hotel would have approximately 220 rooms, as well as common areas, including a relaxation area. However, it will take some time for everything to come to fruition.
Read also: A new health resort, greenery, and no visitors. A sad sight in a Polish city. Read also: Once a sanatorium, now a hotel in the heart of the health resort. It's only a 1.5-hour drive from Warsaw.
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