Dom Śląski, Modern architecture building in Kraków, Poland.
Dom Śląski is a five-story structure located at the corner of Królewska and Pomorska streets, designed in the functionalist style with a distinctive clinker brick exterior. The building houses exhibition spaces on upper levels and historically significant basement cells with walls that still bear marks left by former detainees.
Built between 1932 and 1937 following architect Józef Rybicki's design, the structure served as Gestapo headquarters during the Nazi occupation. After the war, it continued to function as a detention center under Soviet control.
The building now hosts exhibitions that explore how Cracovians endured periods of occupation and oppression across different regimes. Visitors can sense the connection between the physical space and the personal stories of those who experienced fear here.
The site is located at 2 Pomorska Street in the city center and is easily accessible on foot. Plan extra time to explore the basement areas thoughtfully, as the experience can be emotionally demanding.
The basement walls still bear handwritten inscriptions left by prisoners during both the Nazi and Soviet periods. These personal messages remain partially readable and offer direct insight into the thoughts of those held in custody.
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