Bartłomiej Nowodworski High School No. 1 in Kraków

Bartłomiej Nowodworski High School No. I in Kraków, also known as Nowodworski College, is one of the oldest secondary schools in Poland, founded on May 5, 1586, as Collegium Nowodworskiego by the Kraków Academy. The school began its operations in 1588, initially in the Bursa Jerozolimska. Its development was funded primarily through donations, including a significant sum of 15,000 złotys contributed by Bartłomiej Nowodworski. In the 17th century, the school became the best institution of its kind in the country, outperforming Jesuit colleges. In 1818, the school was named after St. Anne, a name it held until 1928, when its original patron was restored. The current high school building at Plac Na Groblach 9, designed by Józef Sare, was constructed between 1897 and 1899 and is listed in the register of historic monuments. Architecturally, it stands out with its neo-Renaissance elements, and its emblem features a Maltese cross. Culturally, the school is known for the Nowodworski Choir, active since 1986, and the Gray Seventh Scout Troop. The school anthem, composed in 2007 by Ryszard Źróbek, reflects patriotic and educational values. Throughout its history, notable Poles such as John III Sobieski, Józef Bem, and Sławomir Mrożek have studied here. The high school offers a unique classical profile, and its students regularly achieve success in academic competitions and olympiads. In 1938, the school was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Order of Polonia Restituta, and in 1988, the Commander's Cross of the OOP. Bartłomiej Nowodworski High School No. I is a place that not only educates but also shapes future leaders and cultural creators.