Our thanks to Layloosha, a blog on things to do in Krakow, Poland, for today’s insight into Schindler’s Factory.
Anyone expecting a step-by-step tour around the factory of Oskar Schindler will be surprised by the historical breadth and multi sensory experience of the museum. Whilst Oskar Schindler figures prominently within the narrative of the museum, the true title of the permanent exhibition ‘Krakow – the period of the 1939 – 1945′ is more appropriate. You are faced with a much more in-depth experience, exploring the build up to the occupation, daily life under German rule and of course the role that Oskar Schindler played under such circumstances.
The museum is a truly modern design whilst paying absolute respect to the authenticity of the time. After looking through the pre-war photography in the opening hall and a fascinating video screen showing archive footage taken from the main market square in Krakow, you are ushered into a small cinema where accounts of the people who worked in the factory are shown.
The Oskar Schindler section of the museum serves as welcome respite from the sometimes gruelling reality of the Krakow’s occupation. The wall of names of workers who were saved by Schindler is reminder of how important this landmark is. The exhibition also welcomes the argument as to how much of Schindler’s pursuits were business orientated over his aims to save his employees from transportation to death camps.
Taken from http://pl.wikipedia.org/
This museum is perhaps one of the most comprehensive historical resources about occupation in Europe. It provides both an immersive experience as well as complete factual guide about Krakow life between 1939 – 1945.
Entry Fee: 17 PLN
Location: Oskar Schindler Factory, Krakow Street: Lipowa 4
kiwidutch
August 27, 2012
I think that even if Schindler’s motives were not completely pure, at least he did the right thing by as many people as he could … if in the end their lives were saved, when they might otherwise have been lost, does the debate then matter anyway?
So many stood by and did nothing, some were powerless, others not, he took action (for whatever reasons) and the families, friends and decendants of these people have him very much to thank for that.
The Exhibition List
August 27, 2012
I couldn’t agree more!
RosaLindaKilgore
August 28, 2012
I’d like to “like” the comment by kiwidutch!