Seweryn Udziela Ethnographic Museum in Kraków

The Seweryn Udziela Ethnographic Museum in Krakow, operating under the Museums Act and its statutory regulations, is a self-governing cultural institution organized by the Local Government of the Małopolska Region. Its structure includes various departments and a branch located in the Esterka House at 46 Krakowska Street. The museum is supervised by the Minister of Culture and National Heritage and the Board of the Małopolska Region, while its activities are supported by the Museum Council. The museum's history dates back to 1902, when an exhibition on folk art was organized on the initiative of the Society of Polish Applied Art. The National Museum established an ethnographic department, and in 1910, the Ethnographic Museum Society was founded, which took over the collection from the National Museum. In 1911, Seweryn Udziela became the director of the institution, and the museum moved to various locations, including Wawel Castle. After World War II, the museum found its home in the Kazimierz Town Hall at 1 Wolnica Square, and later at 46 Krakowska Street. Today, the museum boasts a collection of over 80,000 exhibits related to Polish culture, folklore, and daily life, as well as other cultures of Europe and the world, making it an important center for research on ethnography and material culture. Interestingly, the museum places great emphasis on educational and cultural activities, organizing exhibitions, workshops, and meetings that introduce visitors to the richness of various cultural traditions. The Kazimierz Town Hall, which currently houses the museum, is also noteworthy for its architectural and historical significance, being one of the symbols of Kazimierz and the entire city of Krakow.