Almost ¼ of Warsaw area is comprised of fields, parks, green squares and lush gardens, making Warsaw a European metropolis that truly offers its visitors a breath of fresh air. Some of the city's parks are historical, and many house former royal residences and saxonic gardens: in these respects, Łazienki and Wilanów parks, Saski Garden, the roof of the University library and various hidden green gems around the Pole Mokotowskie area are all examples of modern gardens with a historic feel, making them favourite places of relaxation, for both Warsaw residents and visitors.
Additionally, the city boasts two botanical gardens, which are perfect sanctuaries. Warsaw is also one of those rare cities that can proudly say that its green, wooded boundaries are actually growing outwards! The massive Kampinoski National Park is recognized to be and protected as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reservation.
Warsaw is a thriving urban centre, but it is also a sanctuary for many sorts of wildlife, with birds making up the largest group of animals. Though they mostly find shelter and safety near the green banks of the Vistula (Wisła) river, they can also be found perched high above the city, watching the life and bustle from the truly 'bird's-eye-view' offered from the top of the Palace of Culture and Science.
