Scholastery in Tarnów

The Scholastery in Tarnów, also known as the rector's house or the chapter house, is a historic building from the second half of the 16th century, located at Katedralny Square 5. Throughout its history, it has served various functions, including as a residence for the rector of the parish school and the director of the Austrian gymnasium. Currently, it is the seat of the Diocesan Museum of Tarnów. Little is known about its exact construction date, which is estimated to be between 1559 and 1597. Initially, the building may have been inhabited by the rector, and later it was converted into a residence for the prelate chancellor and students of a small academy. After the First Partition of Poland in 1772, the building became the property of the religious fund, and from the 19th century, it was adapted for educational purposes. Between 1948 and 1952, it underwent a thorough revitalization, which led to its adaptation for museum use. In 1991, it was entered into the register of historical monuments. Architecturally, the Scholastery is an example of 16th-century brick construction, two-story, with a square plan. It is distinguished by its unplastered brick walls and modest decorations, such as the entrance portal with a stone frame. The interior features barrel vaults and low rooms with characteristic wide window benches and tiled stoves. The building is also an interesting object due to the discovery of 16th-century architectural elements during renovation works. The museum exhibits unique collections, including folk paintings on glass. The Scholastery is an important cultural and historical element of Tarnów, bearing witness to many important events in the city's history.