Phoenix Within a Phoenix: Google Campus Warsaw and the Fascinating, Intentional Rebirth of Warsaw’s Praga District

The Praga district of Warsaw has been experiencing a rebirth. This phoenix district, lying within the eastern central part of Warsaw, is experiencing a period of rapid growth and revitalization. Five years ago Praga was thought of as crime-ridden and impoverished, but the area’s low rents and large, historic spaces have started attracting creative types – web designers, artists, musicians and others. In June 2014, Praga landed a windfall when internet giant Google announced plans to build a center for technology startup companies in the district. The location of Google Campus Warsaw will undoubtedly have beneficial effects on employment and property values in the district, but authorities must be careful to assure current Praga residents are among those who enjoy the benefits.