House of Meetings with History

The Dom Spotkań z Historią (DSH, or History Meeting House) is a cultural institution established in 2006 on the initiative of the Karta Center. It is located in a historic building that once housed the Bank Cukrownictwa (Sugar Industry Bank) at 20 Karowa Street in Warsaw. Designed by Antoni Jawornicki, the building was constructed between 1932 and 1933 and stands out for its architecture typical of the era. DSH focuses on the history of Central and Eastern Europe in the 20th century, organizing a variety of events such as exhibitions, film screenings, discussions, conferences, educational workshops, and happenings that actively engage the local community. Admission to all events is free, ensuring broad access to culture and education. The institution’s exhibitions include both photographic displays, such as "1947 BARWY RUIN" (1947 Colors of Ruin) and "W obiektywie wroga" (Through the Enemy’s Lens), as well as multimedia presentations like "Oblicza totalitaryzmu" (Faces of Totalitarianism). DSH also houses a Medioteka, which includes the Oral History Archive containing over 4,000 biographical interviews with witnesses to 20th-century history. Through its collaboration with the USC Shoah Foundation, DSH provides access to video testimonies about the Holocaust, making it one of Poland’s key centers of memory. DSH’s educational activities include free workshops for various age groups and support for teachers in developing educational projects. Through initiatives such as "Wyłącz system" (Switch Off the System) and the Warszawska Inicjatywa Kresowa (Warsaw Eastern Borderlands Initiative), DSH promotes remembrance of important historical events, engaging the community in debates and artistic activities. The DSH Bookstore specializes in historical and Varsoviana publications, hosting book promotions and meetings with authors. By combining cultural, educational, and archival activities, DSH has become a significant hub for history and culture enthusiasts in Warsaw.