Muzeum Żołnierzy Wyklętych i Więźniów Politycznych PRL, Museum dedicated to political prisoners in Warsaw, Poland
The Museum of Cursed Soldiers and Political Prisoners occupies the former Mokotów prison buildings on Rakowiecka Street in Warsaw. The exhibits include artifacts, personal belongings, and written accounts from detainees across different periods of imprisonment.
From 1945 to 1989, this prison served as the main facility for those detained for political reasons during Poland's communist period. The building later became a place of remembrance for the oppression of that era.
The museum displays personal items like rosaries made from bread crumbs and letters from families, reflecting the strength of those imprisoned under communist rule. These objects reveal how detainees maintained human connections despite their isolation.
The museum is open Tuesday through Friday with guided tours available to provide deeper insight into the exhibits. Weekend visitors can join scheduled tour times without needing to book in advance.
The museum preserves original solitary confinement cells where during the Stalinist period up to eight prisoners were confined in spaces designed for one person. This extreme crowding stands as one of the most tangible records of the harsh conditions detainees endured.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
