Phoenix Department Store, Wroclaw

The Phoenix Department Store, located in Wrocław, has a rich history that dates back to its origins as The Barasch Brothers' Department Store. Constructed between 1902 and 1904, this grand establishment was commissioned by the German Jewish merchant family Barasch and designed by architect Georg Schneider. It officially opened its doors to the public on the 4th of October, 1904, becoming a prominent fixture in the city's landscape.

One of the notable architectural features of the original store was its splendid art nouveau facade, which faced the bustling market square. However, in 1929, this facade underwent a transformation, adopting a more simplified and modernist appearance. Additionally, the large glass globe situated atop the main tower at the intersection of Ulica Szewska and Kurzy Targ was removed due to lightning damage.

As the dark clouds of Nazi influence loomed over the region, the Jewish Barasch family faced mounting pressure. Sensing the impending danger, they made the difficult decision to sell their chain of department stores and leave the country, even before the official Aryanization of Jewish businesses began in earnest.

The ravages of World War II took a toll on the historic center of Breslau, and the department store was not spared. However, with the establishment of Polish administration in 1945, efforts to rebuild and restore the store commenced, and on the 7th of August, 1946, the building was once again repurposed for its original use. Initially, only the ground floor was rehabilitated and utilized for commercial activities.

A significant phase of rejuvenation occurred from 1961 onward, during which the building underwent extensive renovation and modernization. The second and third floors were added, expanding the retail space significantly. In 1965, the department store reopened its doors under the name "Co-operative Department Store 'Phoenix'," a title that endures to this day.