Auschwitz: Culture and City History

There are several cultural themes to explore during a stay in Auschwitz: monumental murals on buildings in different parts of the city, historical landmarks on the Market Square and in the city layout, museums, and a free puzzle quest. You can choose between these themes depending on whether you are more interested in art in the urban landscape, architectural and urban history, or a more playful format.

Murals in the urban landscape

The city describes its collection of monumental murals as unique; the works are located on buildings in different parts of the city. The themes of most of the works promote peace, overcome cultural barriers and stereotypes, and convey tolerance. The collection therefore offers a cultural highlight that is not limited to a single building. Individual murals may change. If you are interested in the connection between art and social issues, this perspective adds another way to experience the city alongside its historic buildings and museums.

Traces of the city’s history

St. Hyacinth’s Chapel is a former Dominican chapter house dating from the first half of the 14th century. Its former function and date place the building within a specific period of the city’s history. On the Market Square, remains of the 16th-century town hall and a pre-war fountain have been preserved. The historic urban layout, dating from the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries, is listed in the register of monuments. Chronologically, this dates further back than the town hall remains from the 16th century; at the same time, the layout concerns not a single building but the historic structure of the city.

Museums and synagogue

The Piast Castle on the Soła houses the Muzeum Zamek w Oświęcimiu. The permanent exhibition “W przestrzeniach historii. Dzieje miasta Oświęcimia” is also on display in Auschwitz; its title focuses on the history of the city. The Jewish Museum at Plac Ks. Skarbka gives visitors access to the Chewra Lomdei Mishnayot Synagogue. For current visiting arrangements, check directly with the institution before your visit. These offer different points of interest: a named museum site in the castle, an exhibition on the city’s history, and access to a synagogue through the Jewish Museum.

Quest and Jarmark Kasztelański

A free quest is ideal for travellers who want to discover Auschwitz in a playful format. The game can be played at any time: follow the clues and solve the puzzles. The route follows the paths along the Soła Boulevards and through the Old Town. The Jarmark Kasztelański, by contrast, takes place at a set time: it is held every year in May and features historical demonstrations, hands-on activities, and workshops for children. If you would like to include the Jarmark in your travel plans, check the announced event dates. The quest and the fair offer different formats: a puzzle game with a route through the Old Town and along the Soła Boulevards, and an annual May event featuring historical demonstrations and hands-on activities.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Młoszowa, Zagórze, Alwernia, Chrzanów, Lgota, Babice, Trzebinia, Żarki

For the broader travel overview: Chrzanów.