Railway Museum in Kościerzyna

The Kościerzyna Railway Museum, formerly known as the Kościerzyna Steam Locomotive Depot Open-Air Museum, is located next to the Kościerzyna railway station. The steam locomotive depot ceased operational activities on January 1, 1991, and in 1992, the open-air museum was opened. Since 2009, it has functioned as a branch of the Museum of the Kościerzyna Land. This place attracts over 30,000 visitors annually, who can admire extensive collections related to the history of railways. The museum is housed in the original buildings of the former locomotive depot, and its architecture reflects traditional Prussian designs, creating an interesting blend of history and industrial aesthetics. The history of railways in Kościerzyna dates back to 1885, when the first railway line from Pszczółki was opened. The locomotive depot, whose current building was constructed in 1929, became a key element of regional transport, especially after the construction of the coal trunk line. Between 2013 and 2014, a renovation was carried out, transforming the workshops into modern exhibition halls enhanced with multimedia. The museum's exhibition features 45 rolling stock units, including steam, diesel, and electric locomotives, railcars, and special vehicles such as a rescue train. Among the unique exhibits is an Ok1 series steam locomotive from 1915 and a cable car wagon from Gubałówka. The museum not only preserves the memory of Poland's railway past but also engages visitors through diverse exhibitions and educational cultural activities. It is an important landmark in the region, combining tradition with modernity and offering rich experiences for both railway enthusiasts and families with children. An interesting fact is that the open-air museum also features a narrow-gauge train and locomotives in various states of preservation, allowing visitors to explore the evolution of railway technology over the years.