The Odyssey of Wawel’s Treasures 1939-1961/ Odyseja Skarbów Wawelskich 1939-1961

Wawel, the Royal Castle in Krakow, Poland is home to numerous treasures accumulated by Polish monarchs over centuries. Szczerbiec, the medieval coronation sword; the Turkish banners captured after the battle of Vienna in 1683; precious tapestries and many other artifacts of enormous historic value are there.

Did you know that most of these treasures were evacuated from Wawel following the outbreak of the Second World War? They were safely deposited under the custody of the Government of Canada until 1961.

From May 4 to June 23, 2013 at the Museum, come discover The Odyssey of Wawel’s Treasures 1939-1961/Odyseja Skarbów Wawelskich 1939-1961, an exhibition that tells the story of how these treasures found their way to Canada and back to Poland.

The exhibition is presented by the Consulate of the Republic of Poland in Nova Scotia in partnership with the “Pomorze” Polish Dance Ensemble. It is also an expression of gratitude from all the Poles to Canada for saving a huge part of their national heritage.

The Consulate and the Museum hope the exhibition will increase awareness of Canada’s relations with Poland, as well as Polish culture in general.