POLIN Museum

The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews compellingly and succinctly chronicles the thousand-year history of the Jewish community in Poland, from its arrival in the 10th century to the present day. A notable achievement of the museum is its comprehensive coverage of Jewish tradition and culture, avoiding an exclusive focus on the Holocaust experienced by Jews in Europe, particularly in Poland.

Situated on the grounds of the former Warsaw Ghetto from World War II, the museum is accompanied by the Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto, erected in 1948, which stands prominently in front of the building.

The POLIN museum

The POLIN Museum's distinctive quadrangular glass and crystal structure immediately captures attention. Upon entering, the hall evokes Israeli landscapes and serves as a symbolic representation of Jewish history. The wavy, sand-colored side walls within symbolize the parting of the Red Sea, reminiscent of the pivotal moment when Moses and the Jews fled Egypt.

Structured into eight galleries, the Museum of Polish Jews comprehensively covers various periods in the history of the Jewish community, spanning from their settlement in Poland in the 10th century to contemporary times. Exhibits include the recreation of the Polish King Mieszko's forest, the Gwoździec synagogue's roof, rooms from a traditional Jewish house, scenes from the streets of the Warsaw Ghetto, and more.

Visitors to the POLIN Museum embark on an emotional journey, experiencing the freedom of worship and trade enjoyed by Jews, juxtaposed with the harrowing events leading to their near extermination in the 20th century. Prior to 1939, 3,400,000 Jews resided in Poland, a stark contrast to the present figure of about 10,000.

The final room of the POLIN Museum is dedicated to portraying the contemporary life of Jews in Poland. Additionally, the museum offers facilities such as a kosher restaurant, a bookstore specializing in Jewish literature, and regular lectures on the subject.

The best museum in Europe

Just two years after its opening, the Council of Europe chose the POLIN Museum as the Best Museum in Europe in 2016. It's the only museum in the world that covers the thousand years of Jewish history in a single country - Poland. Moreover, it's a fully interactive museum, which appeals to the senses and transports visitors to another era.

Excursion to Auschwitz-Birkenau

If you seek a profound understanding of the history of Jews during World War II, we recommend a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau. This concentration and extermination camp has been transformed into a museum dedicated to combating oblivion. You can book the tour from Warsaw directly on our website:

• Auschwitz-Birkenau Excursion