Emeryk Hutten-Czapski Museum

Editor's review

A 19th c. neo-Renaissance palace at Pilsudskiego St. has long been shut tight for public, and only few lucky experts actually knew what was in store in its bowels: a private collection of antique Polish numismates, considered the greatest known in the world. The man behind the outstanding collection is count Emeryk Hutten-Czapski, a bibliophile, a collector and an art connoisseur, with a particular interest on Poland and its heritage. By his will the assemblage of over 100 thousand numismatic pieces collected for 130 years, as well as his city residence were donated to the National Museum. The remarkable numismatic collection which has survived the trials of political, social and cultural changes includes numerous precious items. Among them is the largest collection of the oldest Polish coins, denars from the times of king Boleslaw (967 - 1025). A real gem is the only example of the Polish gold coin - the legendary florin of King Ladislaus the Short (1261-1333). The collection is supplemented by dozens of the so called donatives, coins or medals worth from 1,5 to 20 ducats, issued in Gdansk and Torun. And let's not forget the largest collection of gold medals from the times of the Vasa dynasty (1587-1668). In 2013 the palace was thoroughly renovated and reopened for public as yet another branch of the National Museum. The exhibition is complemented by a unique old prints, manuscripts and other national memorabilia from Emeryk Hutten-Czapski’s collection. The facility's attraction is also a beautifully restored, extensive garden.

Editor
Editor & Krakow Local