Jesuit Museum of the Southern Poland Province

The Museum of the Society of Jesus of the Southern Poland Province in Stara Wieś, founded by the Jesuits, focuses primarily on sacred art. Its history dates back to December 1968, when a 16th-century painting in the church was destroyed in a fire. In 2006, the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) revealed that the painting had been intentionally set on fire by officers of the Ministry of Public Security. In 1972, a copy of the painting was created, and the charred fragment of the original work became the starting point of the museum. Initially, the museum functioned as a "memorial room," gathering around 300 objects related to the monastery and Jesuit missions, but after entrusting its care to specialists, it developed into a professional collection. The museum holds rich collections of sacred art and artistic craftsmanship from the 16th to the 20th centuries, illustrating the spirit and aesthetics of the Jesuits. The permanent exhibition features oil paintings, sculptures, goldsmithing, artistic handicrafts, and a collection of liturgical vestments. Among the valuable exhibits is the oldest dated copy of the Miraculous Image of Our Lady of Częstochowa, painted in 1613, as well as memorabilia of great Church figures such as St. Francis de Geronimo, Blessed Jan Beyzym, and Pope John Paul II. The museum also showcases ethnographic and exotic collections related to the missionary activities of the Jesuits in various parts of the world, particularly Africa and Asia. Especially interesting are the collections from these regions, which continue the collecting traditions initiated in the 20th century. The museum also boasts over a hundred nativity scenes from around the world, with the oldest ones being over a hundred years old. Thanks to its rich offerings and unique collections, the museum is an important point on the cultural map of the region and serves as a place for education about the history of the Jesuits and their contribution to Polish culture.