The Museum of the Second World War is a narrative museum where visitors can explore the consequences of the war, its genesis and consequences, the victims and perpetrators, the heroes and human heroes. Gdańsk - a city that was strategic for Hitler and this is where the Second World War began with the attack of the Third Reich - on the Westerplatte depot and the Polish Post Office.
A not accidental project of the Museum of the Second World War The body of the museum consists of three parts:
- Underground – the place where the main exhibition is located, 14 meters below the surface, symbolizes the past,
- The square around the museum – the present, a place where celebrations and outdoor events take place,
- The tower – in the shape of a tilted prism and 40.5 meters high, symbolizes the future. The tower includes a library with a reading room, educational and conference rooms, as well as a cafe and restaurant.
Museum of the Second World War, photo: promotional materials
This institution was set up close to the Polish Post Office and the Westerplatte Peninsula. Covering 23 000 m2 of the usable area, including 5 000 m2 designated for the permanent exhibition, the Museum of the Second World War is one of the most innovative museums in Europe and one of the largest exhibitions on this topic. Its uniqueness is related to its narration, being a story of WW2 from an original perspective.
MIIWS, Main Exhibition, photo: M.Bujak
The permanent exhibition is divided into three narrative blocks and 18 sections.
“The road to war” is dedicated to the origin of the most fatal event of the 20th century. “The horror of war” shows the everyday life of people of various nationalities, religions and ethnic background – all terrorised by the ruthless systems. Finally, “The war’s long shadow” describes long-lasting implications of the war, especially in Eastern Europe.
The museum, located by the Motława River, close to the historical part of the city and the European Solidarity Centre, it is important sight-seeing spot for tourists visiting Gdańsk.
MIIWS, Main Exhibition, photo: M.Bujak
Other exhibitions
- Everyday life during war and occupation – objects in various places of the exhibition.
- Time travel – exhibition for children – a visit to the Museum is recommended for children from 12 years of age,
- There once was Wiadrownia – the history of the district where wooden vessel manufacturers lived, and there is now a museum on its premises.
MIIWS, Main Exhibition, photo: M.Bujak
