Czartoryski Museum

The "Lady with an Ermine" portrait embodies the Renaissance ideal of an image as an illusion of natural vitality. Da Vinci managed to achieve this thanks to his detailed knowledge of anatomy, and his skill with light features. Combining these he was able to create a three-dimensional figure on the image plane. The original background, which was painted over in black in the 19th century, was also modeled with light just like the figure, which must have added to the impression of the model emerging from the shadows. The painting was purchased in Italy in around 1800 by Adam Jerzy, the son of Princess Izabela Czartoryska, and later donated to the Museum in Puławy. The portrait became the property of the Republic of Poland in 2016. In addition to the museum mentioned above, you get access to 37 other museums in Krakow for 3 days, which you can visit for free with the Krakow card. The museums included in the City Pass include: 1. Schindlers Factory 2. Main Market Square Underground 3. Polish Aviation Museum 4. The Princes Czartoryski Museum (Lady with Ermine by Leonardo da Vinci) 5. City Defence Walls Krakow 6. Archaeological Museum (Main building) 7. Archaeological Museum (Underground of the Church of Saint Adalbert) 8. Archaeological Museum (Nowa Huta Branice) 9. The Seweryn Udziela Ethnographic Museum 10. The Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art in the Sukiennice 11. The Stanisław Wyspiański Museum 12. The Zwierzyniec House 13. The Jozef Mehoffer House 14. St. Adalberts Church Underground 15. History of Photography Museum 16. Centre for documentation of the Art of Tadeusz Kantor Cricoteka, Archives. Office 17. The Bishop Erazm Ciołek Palace 18. The Old Synagogue 19. The Archdiocese Museum 20. The Szołayski House 21. The Hipolit House 22. The Main Building of the National Museum 23. Regional Rydel`s Museum of Polish Modernism Rydlowka 24. The Emeryk Hutten-Czapski Museum 25. Pomorska Street 26. Celestat 27. MOCAK 28. Town Hall Tower 29. Exhibition in Nowa Huta District Branice 30. Galicja Jewish Museum 31. The Barbican 32. The Eagle Pharmacy 33. The Krzysztofory Palace 34. Museum of the Home Army dedicated Gen Emil Fieldorf Nil 35. The Jan Matejko House 36. Nowa Huta Museum 37. Legends of Cracow 38. Kościuszko Mound

More than 3 years ago, the Ministry of Culture purchased the Czartoryski collection owned by Prince Adam Karol Czartoryski for about 500 million Zloties. Consequently, it was possible to complete the renovation of the buildings belonging to the Czartoryski Principles Museum and make them accessible to visitors again. This means that the lady with the Hermellino also returned to "its" museum after a stall phase. There is no more famous painting on the visa. The story of the painting itself is fascinating. Starting from the purchase, wrapped in mystery, and the subsequent interpretations of the figure of the model and the animal he holds in his hand. Through the disbelief of the world experts that such a painting from such a renowned artist could be in a Polish collection. Finally with the history of the lady's journey, the evacuation, the looting, the damage, the nationalization, the re-impivatization and finally the sale. However, the above story would intrigue only the specialists if it were not for the artistic value of the painting and, consequently, for its financial value estimated at around 1.3 billion zloties. This makes the painting the most expensive work of art in the Polish collection. The painting symbolically depicts the burning love between two people, but also captures the transitoryness of beauty. The portrait of the adolescent Cecilia appears to be practically identical to that of over 500 years ago, when a few years after the painting the model complains in a letter to have changed a lot and that no one will believe that it is its image. However, let's give voice to Leonardo himself on what he thought of the painting: "O wonderful mastery, you maintain the weak beauty of mortals alive, giving them more permanence than what the works of nature possess, continually changed by time, which lead to an inevitable old age". The museum space can be very close in many places, so for the comfort of visitors, the number of people participating in the walk is limited.

Discover the 3 most important districts of the city with us. The Old Town, Kazimierz - the Jewish district, Podgorze - the former ghetto area. Come with us on a 2-hour journey in our golf carts and discover the history of the city with the help of our experienced drivers and audioguide system. What will you see? 1. History of Krakow - description of the city 2. Krakow Planty 3. Church of St. Cross 4. Słowacki Theater 5. Former city walls 6. Barbican 7. Jan Matejko Square 8. Church of St. Florian 9. Sławkowska Street 10. Czartoryski Museum 11. St. John's Street and Church 12. Main Square 13. Plac Szczepański 14. Palace of Art 15. St. Anne's Church 16. Town Hall 17. Franciscan Church 18. Wawel Castle 19. Jewish Quarter - description 20. Skałka Church 21. Church of St. Catherine 22. Wolnica Square - Jewish City Hall 23. Church of Corpus Christi 24. Tempel Synagogue 25. Kupa Synagogue 26. Isaac Synagogue 27. Ciemna Street 28. Old Synagogue 29. Popper Synagogue 30. Family House of Helena Rubinstein 31. Remuh Synagogue and old cemetery 32. Memorial Stone of the Nissembaum Family Foundation 33. Old Jewish Shops 34. Former Ghetto - description 35. Ghetto Heroes Square 36. Pharmacy under the Eagle - Residence of Tadeusz Pankiewicz 37. Oskar Schindler's - history 38. Life in Ghetto - description 39. Ghetto Wall 40. Church of St. Joseph

Learn the history of the medieval city of Krakow. Explore the magical and mysterious streets of the Old Town. Meet us in our electric vehicle - golf cart and go on a magical journey that will show you the history of the Kings of Poland and the nobility of Krakow. Beautiful streets of the city, monuments that you will not find anywhere else in Poland - Krakow at its most beautiful. What will you see? 1. History of Krakow - description of the city 2. Krakow Planty 3. Church of St. Cross 4. Słowacki Theater 5. Former city walls 6. Barbican 7. Jan Matejko Square 8. Church of St. Florian 9. Sławkowska Street 10. Czartoryski Museum 11. St. John's Street and Church 12. Main Square 13. Plac Szczepański 14. Palace of Art 15. St. Anne's Church 16. Town Hall 17. Franciscan Church 18. Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral The most important is.... don't worry be happy ;)

More than 3 years ago, the Ministry of Culture purchased the Czartoryski collection owned by Prince Adam Karol Czartoryski for about 500 million Zloties. Consequently, it was possible to complete the renovation of the buildings belonging to the Czartoryski Principles Museum and make them accessible to visitors again. This means that the lady with the Hermellino also returned to "its" museum after a stall phase. There is no more famous painting on the visa. The story of the painting itself is fascinating. Starting from the purchase, wrapped in mystery, and the subsequent interpretations of the figure of the model and the animal he holds in his hand. Through the disbelief of the world experts that such a painting from such a renowned artist could be in a Polish collection. Finally with the history of the lady's journey, the evacuation, the looting, the damage, the nationalization, the re-impivatization and finally the sale. However, the above story would intrigue only the specialists if it were not for the artistic value of the painting and, consequently, for its financial value estimated at around 1.3 billion zloties. This makes the painting the most expensive work of art in the Polish collection. The painting symbolically depicts the burning love between two people, but also captures the transitoryness of beauty. The portrait of the adolescent Cecilia appears to be practically identical to that of over 500 years ago, when a few years after the painting the model complains in a letter to have changed a lot and that no one will believe that it is its image. However, let's give voice to Leonardo himself on what he thought of the painting: "O wonderful mastery, you maintain the weak beauty of mortals alive, giving them more permanence than what the works of nature possess, continually changed by time, which lead to an inevitable old age". The museum space can be very close in many places, so for the comfort of visitors, the number of people participating in the walk is limited.

Begin with a pickup at your hotel. Then, start exploring Krakow in the Old Town. Pass through the Kraków Barbican, which is the gateway to the old town, and see the city walls. After this, drive by the Czartoryski Museum and Świętego Jana on the way to the Main Market Square. Marvel at the historical landmarks and cafes in this public space that is Europe's largest medieval plaza. Then, see the water fountains at Plac Szczepański, a rejuvenated public space, and the Collegium Maius, a university building known for its courtyard and cloisters. Arrive at the Town Hall. See some more renowned landmarks, including the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Bishop's Palace, and the Czartoryski Museum. Appreciate the view of the castle on top of a limestone bluff at Wawel Hill, the Roman Catholic Parish of the Holy Cross, and Juliusz Słowacki Theatre as well. Admire the view of St. Florian's Gate and its Gothic towers, which has been a gateway to the city since the Middle Ages. Head to Planty Park, and then stop to take some photos and shop for souvenirs on Szeroka Street. Afterward, continue the trip with a visit to the historical Kazimierz district. See the Old Synagogue, Popper Synagogue, Remuh Synagogue, and Izaak Synagogue. After that, go to plac Nowy, Dom Heleny Rubinstein, and the Museum of Municipal Engineering. Take a break at the Corpus Christi Basilica, a Gothic church established in 1335 by King Casimir III the Great. Continue to Wolnica Square, where a salt trading route from Wieliczka and Bochnia used to pass. Take photos of Father Bernatek’s Bridge, which is famous for its sculptures by the artist Jerzy Kędziora. Go to Podgórze on the way to visit the Plac Bohaterów, which was a part of the Ghetto. Drive to Apteka pod Orłem and then see Oscar Schindler's factory, which hosts 2 museums. Continue to see the Jewish Ghetto. End the tour at Église Saint-Joseph, a historic church in the Podgórze district.

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Krakow's rich history and cultural heritage with our Segway Tour of the Old Town and Wawel Castle. This immersive experience combines the thrill of Segway exploration with the charm of exploring one of Europe's most historic cities. Your adventure begins as you meet our expert guides at the designated starting point, where you'll be introduced to the Segway – a modern and eco-friendly mode of transportation that effortlessly glides through the cobblestone streets. After a brief orientation to ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident, we'll set off on our exploration. As you gracefully navigate the historic streets of the Old Town, you'll be surrounded by architectural wonders and a vibrant atmosphere that breathes life into Krakow's past. The iconic Main Market Square, a bustling hub of activity, unfolds before you. Here, the stunning St. Mary's Basilica stands as a testament to Gothic architecture, and the historic Cloth Hall echoes tales of medieval trade and commerce. The Segway effortlessly transports you to the royal heart of Krakow – Wawel Castle. This Unesco World Heritage Site, perched on Wawel Hill, is a symbol of Poland's regal history. Your guide will weave captivating stories of kings, queens, and the historical significance of this majestic fortress. Take in the panoramic views of the Vistula River and the city below as you absorb the grandeur of Wawel. Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable guides provide insightful narratives, historical context, and anecdotes that make the city's past come alive. The seamless mobility of the Segway allows you to cover more ground and explore hidden corners that might be missed on traditional walking tours. As we wind our way back through the Old Town, there's time for optional breaks at local cafes or eateries, where you can indulge in the flavors of Krakow or simply savor a moment of relaxation. Your Segway adventure concludes with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the cultural treasures that make Krakow a Unesco-listed gem. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or someone seeking a unique and enjoyable way to explore, our Segway Tour of Krakow's Old Town and Wawel Castle promises an unforgettable journey through time and architecture.

Learn the history of the medieval city of Krakow. Explore the magical and mysterious streets of the Old Town. Meet us in our electric vehicle - golf cart and go on a magical journey that will show you the history of the Kings of Poland and the nobility of Krakow. Beautiful streets of the city, monuments that you will not find anywhere else in Poland - Krakow at its most beautiful. What will you see? 1. History of Krakow - description of the city 2. Krakow Planty 3. Church of St. Cross 4. Słowacki Theater 5. Former city walls 6. Barbican 7. Jan Matejko Square 8. Church of St. Florian 9. Sławkowska Street 10. Czartoryski Museum 11. St. John's Street and Church 12. Main Square 13. Plac Szczepański 14. Palace of Art 15. St. Anne's Church 16. Town Hall 17. Franciscan Church 18. Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral The most important is.... don't worry be happy ;)

This experience is great if you have just arrived in Krakow and would like to know your way around the Old Town area. In just 90 minutes we will turn you into a local expert, and will show you the best of Krakow, from Florian's Gate to Wawel Castle. A member of our team, full of natives of Krakow, will be your guide. W start each tour with a proper overview of the city before delving into its history, details, legends, and attractions. Whatever interests you—economics, politics, education, or art—we can discuss as we tour. - Led by an enthusiastic Krakow natives. - Learn about the history of Poland, Krakow, and the Polish people. - See the highlights of Krakow in 90 minutes - Get recommendations and ideas from your guide for your time in Krakow

Discover the 3 most important districts of the city with us. The Old Town, Kazimierz - the Jewish district, Podgorze - the former ghetto area. Come with us on a 2-hour journey in our golf carts and discover the history of the city with the help of our experienced drivers and audioguide system. What will you see? 1. History of Krakow - description of the city 2. Krakow Planty 3. Church of St. Cross 4. Słowacki Theater 5. Former city walls 6. Barbican 7. Jan Matejko Square 8. Church of St. Florian 9. Sławkowska Street 10. Czartoryski Museum 11. St. John's Street and Church 12. Main Square 13. Plac Szczepański 14. Palace of Art 15. St. Anne's Church 16. Town Hall 17. Franciscan Church 18. Wawel Castle 19. Jewish Quarter - description 20. Skałka Church 21. Church of St. Catherine 22. Wolnica Square - Jewish City Hall 23. Church of Corpus Christi 24. Tempel Synagogue 25. Kupa Synagogue 26. Isaac Synagogue 27. Ciemna Street 28. Old Synagogue 29. Popper Synagogue 30. Family House of Helena Rubinstein 31. Remuh Synagogue and old cemetery 32. Memorial Stone of the Nissembaum Family Foundation 33. Old Jewish Shops 34. Former Ghetto - description 35. Ghetto Heroes Square 36. Pharmacy under the Eagle - Residence of Tadeusz Pankiewicz 37. Oskar Schindler's - history 38. Life in Ghetto - description 39. Ghetto Wall 40. Church of St. Joseph