Museum of Old Merchantry in Świdnica

The Museum of Old Merchants in Świdnica, established in 1966, is located in the historic rooms of the town hall and aims to collect and preserve cultural heritage related to the history of commerce and metrology in Silesia. Since 2019, under the direction of Dobiesław Karst, the museum is divided into four main departments: Old Merchants, Metrology, History of Świdnica, and Scientific and Educational. In the Councilors' Hall, where exhibitions dedicated to the city's history are held, visitors can admire late Gothic architecture and 16th-century polychromes, as well as a 17th-century model of Świdnica illustrating the medieval fortification system. The History of Świdnica Department collects documents and objects, including postcards, books, and emblems, showcasing the city's past. In an annex to the hall, a mausoleum of the Świdnica Piasts has been arranged, featuring copies of carved tomb slabs. The Old Merchants Department displays rich collections related to historical trade, including glass and ceramic packaging for colonial goods and equipment from old shops, ranging from cash registers to advertising signs. An interesting attraction is the reconstructed interiors, such as a 20th-century inn or a colonial goods store. The Metrology Department offers artifacts related to trade exchange, including various scales and measures, with a 17th-century scale by I. C. Simon and rare ells. Its unique exhibitions, such as the Weigh House, are the only ones of their kind in Poland. The Scientific and Educational Department focuses on promoting the museum and education by organizing museum lessons and temporary exhibitions. The museum not only richly illustrates local history but also serves as an important cultural and educational center in the region.