National Museum in Warsaw

Museum in Warsaw

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mister No

The National Museum in Warsaw is one of Poland’s most important cultural institutions, home to a vast and diverse collection spanning thousands of years. Established in 1862, the museum has grown into a treasure trove of art and history, with over 800,000 items ranging from ancient archaeological finds to 20th-century works. Its location on Aleje Jerozolimskie places it within easy reach of the city center, and the modernist building itself, completed in 1938, is a notable example of pre-war Polish architecture.

The museum’s highlights include an outstanding gallery of Polish painting, featuring masterpieces by Jan Matejko, Józef Chełmoński, and Jacek Malczewski. Visitors can trace the development of Polish national identity through powerful historical scenes, romantic landscapes, and symbolic portraits. In addition to Polish works, the European collection features paintings by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Cranach, offering a strong representation of Renaissance and Baroque art. The museum also has impressive holdings in sculpture, graphic arts, and decorative arts.

One of the museum’s most prized exhibits is the Faras Gallery, which displays a unique collection of early Christian frescoes and artifacts from the Nubian cathedral in Faras (modern-day Sudan), rescued during an international effort to save monuments threatened by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. These rare pieces offer a glimpse into the artistic and religious life of medieval Nubia, and the gallery is considered one of the most important of its kind in Europe.

Beyond its permanent collections, the National Museum hosts a wide range of temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and public events. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, thematic lectures, and interactive workshops designed to engage all ages. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations, religious art, or Polish history, the museum offers a deep and engaging experience that reflects the richness and resilience of Polish culture.

The National Museum in Warsaw appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Warsaw!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Visiting National Museum in Warsaw

Hours:

Monday: Closed; Tuesday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (permanent galleries free on Tuesdays); Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Happy Hours: 50% off all tickets from 5:00–8:00 PM); Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Price:

30 PLN

Address: National Museum in Warsaw, Aleje Jerozolimskie, Warsaw, Poland

Official Website