Bishop Erazm Ciolek Palace (Polish National Museum in Krakow)
Kanonicza 17, Kraków, POL
The 14th-century Bishop Erazm Ciolek Palace now houses a branch of Poland’s National Museum, exhibiting mainly religious art from Poland and the wider region from roughly the 12th to 18th century. Itself an attraction, the attractively restored palace is one of Krakow’s finest and a must-visit attraction for art, history, and culture lovers.
Krakow is a historically and artistically rich city, and the Bishop Erazm Ciolek Palace branch of the National Museum is an essential stop for visitors interested in learning more about it. Many city sightseeing tours pass by the palace, though travelers typically visit the museum independently to explore at their own pace. A handy way to include the palace in your Krakow itinerary is to purchase a museum pass, which includes access to several museums, galleries, and other attractions around the city.
There’s an entry fee to the museum, but kids under 7 years old get in free.
The museum is wheelchair-accessible and features a lift and accessible restrooms.
Audio guides in English (as well as several other languages) are available for rent.
The museum is just north of Wawel Castle, on ul Kanonicza. Like most of central, historic Krakow, it’s best reached on foot, as traffic flow is limited in this area. To reach the museum by public transport, take tram 6, 8, 10, 13, or 18 to św. Gertrudy Street or Franciszkańska Street.
Like many museums and galleries throughout Europe, this one is closed on Mondays. Opening hours are longer on Saturdays, and access to the permanent exhibits is free on Sundays. The museum is more crowded then, but it’s a good opportunity for travelers on a budget.
Another Krakow branch of the National Museum that’s worth checking out is the Czartoryski Museum. Its most famous exhibit is Leonardo da Vinci’sLady with an Ermine, and art and culture enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the rare opportunity to see a painting by the Italian Renaissance artist outside Italy or France.
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