Marian Rejewski's bench in Bydgoszcz

The Marian Rejewski Bench in Bydgoszcz, located at the intersection of Gdańska and Śniadeckich Streets, is a monument unveiled on September 14, 2005, by the cryptologist’s daughter, Janina Sylwestrzak. The sculpture was created by Michał Kubiak, who crafted the bronze monument depicting the figure of Marian Rejewski (1905–1980), one of Poland’s most important cryptologists, renowned for his role in breaking the codes of the German Enigma machine. Rejewski, a native of Bydgoszcz, cracked the secrets of the Enigma in 1932, a breakthrough that played a crucial role in intelligence operations during World War II. The monument’s design is noteworthy, as the seated Rejewski is placed on a bench made of thick granite slabs, giving the composition a monumental character. Next to the figure is a model of the Enigma machine, highlighting his contributions to cryptography and Polish history. The monument not only commemorates the legacy of this outstanding Bydgoszcz citizen but also serves as an important cultural landmark, reminding viewers of Poland’s role in the history of encryption. Interestingly, Rejewski collaborated with intelligence agencies, which proved decisive during the war, and his achievements continue to fascinate historians and mathematics enthusiasts to this day.