Key qualities of 19th-century barrack complexes on the example of Legnica’s Grenadier Barracks

With the construction of Grenadier Barracks in 1874, Legnica joined the prestigious group of 82 Silesian garrison towns that were regularly visited by the highest authorities. Barracks, which were often built according to a typical plan, were characterized by a set of standard features that immediately distinguished them from the surrounding buildings and communicated a set of intangible impressions: prestige, community, strength, etc. Today, these features form a link with intangible heritage and local tradition. For this reason, when demilitarized barrack complexes are redeveloped, priority should be given to preserving the plan and architectural form as these now constitute cultural capital. The present study contains a synthetic description of the evolution of Legnica garrison, a detailed analysis of the Grenadier Barracks, and an introduction to the discussion on their protection through suitable revitalization.