The Maria Konopnicka Museum in Żarnowiec

The Maria Konopnicka Museum in Żarnowiec is a biographical institution dedicated to the famous Polish poet, established in 1957. It is located in a historic 18th-century manor house that was renovated at the end of the 19th century, surrounded by a park spanning over 3 hectares, and includes an outbuilding (lamus) that was part of the national gift to Konopnicka on the occasion of her 25th anniversary as a writer. In 1903, the poet moved into the manor in Żarnowiec together with her friend Maria Dulębianka, where she spent the spring and summer months engaged in social and literary activities. This period of the poet’s life was marked by travels to countries such as Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland, which had a beneficial effect on her health. Dulębianka had her own painting studio in the manor, enriching the artistic atmosphere of the place. The manor remained in the Konopnicka family until 1956 and during World War II served as a shelter for partisans. After the war, the poet’s daughter Zofia Mickiewiczowa and other heirs donated the manor and park to the Polish nation, paving the way for the creation of the museum. After renovation and conservation, the museum was officially opened on September 15, 1960. In 1991, the outbuilding (lamus) was put into use, housing part of the exhibition. An interesting fact is that the memorial plaque of Maria Konopnicka in the museum was created by the artist Władysław Kandefer in 1980. Today, the museum plays an important role in preserving cultural heritage and promoting Konopnicka’s work, serving as both a memorial site and a tourist attraction.