the garden of the archeological museum
(The garden is temporarily closed)
In the very center of Krakow, but away from the hustle and bustle of the streets, in the vicinity of the Planty Park, behind a high wall, you can find hidden, stunning place- the Garden of the Archaeological Museum. This garden was designed in the Renaissance style.
HISTORY
The origins of the garden date back to the 17th century. The garden structure was created near the now non-existent Carmelite Monastery and the Church of St. Michael and St. Joseph. In 1797, by decision of the then Austrian authorities, the monastery was converted into a prison. Between the years 1958-1966 the complex of former monastery and prison buildings was converted into the house the Archaeological Museum. In 1961, they began reconstructing the garden to its original layout on the site of the former garden structures. The design of the garden in the Renaissance style was created by scientists from the Cracow University of Technology, under the supervision of professors Gerard Ciołek, and then Stefan Żychoń. The project was carried out by the Monuments Conservation Studios in Krakow.
The garden was completed at the turn of 1967 and 1968.
A corner of silence at the foot of the Wawel Castle.
Currently, in the garden of the Archaeological Museum you can find a wide variety of vegetation: thuja trees, hydrangeas, magnolias, roses, shrubs, perennials. There is also a tree with an exotic appearance – catalpa, which is characterized by a lush crown, large heart-shaped leaves and cream-colored flowers. Walking along the garden paths, we can admire the beautiful view on the Wawel Castle. Outdoor events were held in this spot, such as the Archaeological Picnic, the Military Picnic. Business events, classical and light music concerts (Student Song Festival, Mens Playing event) took place in the garden spaces. Among others, Catalan singer-songwriter Lluís Llach performed here.
The garden spaces are also a place for sculptors’ exhibitions. Among the greenery, we can notice ceramic sculptures by artists from Wrocław. There is, among others, sculpture inspired by Światowid by Małgorzata Swolkień.
ABOUT THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM:
The Archaeological Museum in Krakow is the oldest Polish archaeological museum. It was established in 1850 as the Museum of Antiquities
In the Main Building of the Museum, permanent exhibitions are presented, including :
• Gods of Ancient Egypt (collection of antiquities from ancient Egypt)
• Prehistory and early Middle Ages of Małopolska (collection of exhibits presenting various aspects of the life of the former inhabitants of Małopolska).
The website: http://ma.krakow.pl
