POLIN – Museum of History of Polish Jews is located on the site of the former Jewish district, during World War II this was transformed into a ghetto and later completely destroyed.

The first thing you notice is the outstanding building of the museum designed by famous Finnish architectural studio Lahdelma & Mahlamäki. Personally I’m always intrigued by the impressive crack dividing the building into two parts which symbolises the biblical scene of Jews passing through the Red Sea.

What’s also unique about this museum is that unlike many other Jewish museums around the world, this one doesn’t focus on WW II or the Holocaust but instead tells the history Polish Jews ever since they first arrived in the country, from the Middle Ages until contemporary times. The main exhibition consists of interactive stories of Jewish families and their influence on Polish culture and history. One especially curious exhibit is a beautifully decorated reconstruction of a wooden synagogue.

After your visit I can recommend having a kosher meal coupled with Israeli wine in the museum’s restaurant.