History

Tobaco Park – 19th Century Tradition

History of Factory-Worker Łódź

The history of Tobacco Park, of which the Tobaco Hotel is a part, begins in the 19th century - in the turbulent times of the industrialist's "promised land".

Cover of a book dedicated to industrial history, publication about the factory history

Heritage of Industrial Łódź

The history of the Tobacco Park complex, to which the Tobacco Hotel belongs, dates back to the late 19th century, when one of Łódź's manufacturers, Karol Kretschmer, began looking for a suitable place to expand and modernize his textile plant. Kretschmer's factory, one of the first in Łódź, was previously located in the city center on Piotrkowska Street, where it was difficult to find space large enough to realize the vision of the enterprising industrialist. Kopernika Street (then Milscha) was not a random choice. Its location on the outskirts of the city at that time created ideal conditions for the systematic expansion of the factory complex, and the proximity of the newly built railway line and the still operating Łódź Kaliska station made this location exceptionally attractive from a logistical point of view.

Exterior view of brick factory building with tall windows and period details

Black and white illustration from the times of operation of a former factory

Kretschmer Factory Before the War

Thriving Textile Plant

The woolen handkerchief factory, equipped with a modern steam spinning mill and 62 hand looms, thrived excellently, employing over 300 workers at its peak. The good streak was only interrupted by the outbreak of World War I.

Cozy dining room with colorful chairs, brick wall and decorations on the wall

Culinary Journey in a Historic Place

The Taste of History
at Tobaco Park

The memory of the beginnings of the complex and of the founder of the factory himself has survived not only in old documents. The name of the hotel’s restaurant “U Kretschmera” daily reminds us of the historic character of the site.

Picture in an ornate frame with letters hanging on brick wall in dining room

Tobacco Monopoly
and Modernism

In 1925, the complex became the property of the State Tobacco Monopoly, and a year later was expanded with buildings in a modernist style. Today, one of these buildings houses the Tobaco hotel. It took its name from the Tobacco and Cigarette Factory, which the former textile plant was transformed into. This factory, one of the largest in Poland, operated until the end of the 20th century, producing well-known packaged cigarettes such as Płaskie, Egipskie, and Popularne.

Lofts and Apartments

History and Design at Tobaco Park

In addition to the hotel, Tobacco Park includes apartments, lofts, and suites, characterized by interestingly arranged spaces and unconventional architectural solutions. The whole retains the unique atmosphere and spirit of old Łódź.