The Long Night of Museums

The programme of the 16th Museum Night in Kraków focuses on the natural world. The opening (6pm) takes place outdoors, in MOCAK’s courtyard, presenting a chill-out zone inspired by the exhibition Nature in Art (until midnight). As well as opening its permanent and temporary exhibitions, the museum presents the documentary Before the Flood, prepared by acclaimed environmentalists, actors, politicians and even Pope Francis. The Museum of Krakow also explores the natural world with a family walk through Planty Garden Ring, a discussion about green spaces Kraków: Garden City? at the Krzysztofory Palace, and stories about former residents of the Rydlówka village and the use of floral motifs in the Young Poland movement. The National Museum in Krakow gets involved with several exhibitions, including the presentation Power of Nature. Henry Moore in Poland, shown in several locations. The museum branches host myriad attractions, including students from Kraków’s Academy of Fine Arts presenting their campaign Naturally, or Become a Model and Receive Your Portrait. Kraków’s museums are joined by the Jagiellonian University’s Centre for Environmental Education with a programme of lectures on the history of our planet, minerals, fossils and living organisms. Following the artistic exploration and armed with brand new knowledge in many fields, take a break in one of the participating museum gardens (for example the Renaissance garden of the Museum of Archaeology) or the beautifully illuminated Botanical Garden, or join the relaxation sessions at the Stary Theatre Museum.
The museum marathon runs from 7pm until 1am, although some of the sixty participating venues throughout Kraków, Wieliczka and Niepołomice are open at slightly different times. All exhibitions and attractions are free, but note that some require prior reservation. Free tickets and commemorative tokens entitle users to free public transport. (Dorota Dziunikowska, “Karnet” magazine)