The Bishop’s Gardens in Pelplin, a historic park complex on the site of the former Cistercian abbey, are being renovated. The project includes not only the development of the area, but also thorough renovation of two 19th century buildings in the park – the Gate House and the Cart House, which will house the Cistercian Gardens Gallery. Ultimately, the park will be open to visitors, serving not only tourists and pilgrims during the season, but also the residents of Pelplin on a daily basis.

The gardens were designed in the Baroque style, but through years of neglect and incompatible planting, they lost their character. Restoration of their original appearance is the aim of current activities. Work on the vegetation is progressing – the dead trees are being removed, the remaining trees pruned, and new ones planted in accordance with the historical plan. An important element is the restoration of the original geometrical layout of the alleys, so characteristic of Baroque gardens – the ground has already been prepared for the new one, and where the existing paths do not disturb the original style, the old, damaged surface has already been dismantled and the ground prepared for the new one. The installation of new lighting and monitoring is also underway.

The second task within the project is a thorough renovation of two historic buildings - the former cart house and the gate building, both dating back to the 19th century and both requiring immediate intervention. After an appropriate adaptation of the cart house, including the addition of a glass hall in the courtyard, it will house the Cistercian Gardens Gallery which will present exhibitions connected mainly with the Cistercians, their lifestyle and history in Pelplin, Pomerania and Europe.

All the activities will be complemented by the installation of a number of elements that are contemporary, such as an information kiosk, brass information boards, a map of the park made of tempered glass or bronze models – both of the Gardens and of the entire Cistercian Abbey.