Museum of Oil Industry and Ethnography in Libusza

The Museum of Oil Industry and Ethnography in Libusza, founded in 1977 by Anna and Tadeusz Pabis, is a unique cultural institution in the Gorlice district, focusing on the history of the oil industry and the ethnographic heritage of the region. The museum is located in the picturesque village of Libusza and is open year-round on weekdays. The exhibition is divided into two main sections – oil industry and ethnography – offering a remarkable insight into the lives of local residents and the development of the local industry. The oil industry section features valuable exhibits, such as a kerosene distillery from 1856, a 19th-century mining forge, models of oil wells from the period 1852–1939, as well as drilling tools and equipment. The collection also includes ceramic kerosene gallons and uniforms of oil industry workers, allowing visitors to trace the development of oil mining and processing in the region. Importantly, the museum documents the history of people associated with this industry, with around 500 biographical notes on miners and oil workers, highlighting its educational value. The ethnography section showcases the cultural richness of the region, featuring antique furniture, costumes, everyday objects, and agricultural tools. Among the interesting exhibits are also technical relics, such as a gramophone or sewing machines, which offer a glimpse into the old traditions and daily life of the inhabitants. Promoting local culture, the museum is also the headquarters of the Foundation for the Dissemination of the History of the Oil Industry, which has been operating since 2000 and supports the promotion of the institution and its educational activities. The Museum of Oil Industry and Ethnography in Libusza is an important place not only for the local community but also for tourists, who can discover the incredibly fascinating history of the oil industry and the culture of the Gorlice region. It is a prime example of an institution that combines architectural, cultural, and historical aspects, serving as a treasury of knowledge about the past and regional traditions.