Nicholas Copernicus Bench in Olsztyn

The Nicolaus Copernicus Bench is located in Olsztyn’s Old Town, at the intersection of Okopowa and Zamkowa Streets, in close proximity to the Evangelical-Augsburg Church. The monument was unveiled in October 2003 to commemorate the 650th anniversary of Olsztyn being granted city rights and the 530th anniversary of the birth of Nicolaus Copernicus, the renowned astronomer who significantly influenced the development of science. The sculpture was created by the acclaimed Olsztyn-based artist Urszula Szmyt, and the work itself was crafted at the Center of Polish Sculpture in Orońsko. The monument’s architecture gains uniqueness due to its location within the historical context of Olsztyn, where old tenement houses and historic buildings create an unparalleled atmosphere. The astronomer is depicted sitting on a brick wall covered with a marble slab, which emphasizes both the aesthetics and durability of the sculpture. Dressed in a long coat with a fur collar, he holds an astrolabe and a scroll of paper, symbolizing his contributions to the field of astronomy. The monument is not only a tribute to Copernicus but also a part of Olsztyn’s cultural heritage, attracting tourists and residents eager to learn about the city’s history. Interestingly, the Nicolaus Copernicus Bench has become a meeting place and a source of inspiration for many artists and science enthusiasts, as well as a symbol of local pride, reminding us of Olsztyn’s rich history and the significance of the great astronomer to the world of science.