Pawiak Prison Museum
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Pawiak Prison Museum
Located in Warsaw, the Pawiak Prison Museum memorializes a dark chapter in Polish history. Built in 1835, it was once a prison for enemies of the Russian tsar and later became a site of horror during WWII.
The museum highlights the chilling experiences of around 100,000 prisoners held from 1939 to 1944, with approximately 37,000 executions recorded. Following its destruction by the Germans in 1944, remnants, including a gateway and three detention cells, are now part of the museum's offerings, which emphasize both historical significance and cultural heritage.
Significant Highlights
🕊️ Surviving Cells: Explore original detention cells that housed political prisoners.
🧱 Gate Remnants: View the destroyed entrance that serves as a somber memorial.
📜 Historical Exhibits: Engaging displays narrate the harrowing stories of inmates.
Accessible via a joint ticket system, the museum welcomes tourists, families, and historians interested in Poland's WWII past.
Interesting Facts about Natural History Museum Pawiak Prison Museum
Prison History
Opened in 1835, it was initially built for political prisoners under the Russian Empire.
Gestapo Utilization
During WWII, the Gestapo operated the prison, detaining thousands of Polish resistance members.
Destruction in 1944
The prison was destroyed by the German forces as they retreated from Warsaw.
Location
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Address
View mapUl. Dzielna 24/26
Opening Hours
Friday:
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Monday:
Closed
Saturday:
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Sunday:
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Thursday:
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Tuesday:
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Wednesday:
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Contact Information
Price
20 PLN for adults, 10 PLN for concessions. Joint tickets available for other museums.
Average Visit Duration
Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (1:00 PM–3:00 PM) are less crowded.