Our trip to the Polin Museum was one of the highlights of our journey thus far. The layout and structure of this museum capture your attention from beginning to end. Polin Museum provides a comprehensive look at the history of Polish Jews. Each section was engaging through its use of multiple mediums to highlight examples and information related to the primary theme of each exhibit. Having learned about Judaism from my wife, I was surprised at how thorough it was in that aspect. The museum illustrated the beauty and tenets of Judaism while bringing this culture's richness to life. I was engaged (at times overwhelmed) by the amount of information that was provided in each exhibit. The picture below demonstrates a time in Polish history when Jews were welcome and flourishing in Poland.
I believe each Pole should visit this museum to learn firsthand about the humanity of the people who were removed and killed during the Holocaust. Throughout hundreds of years of Polish history, Jews were present in many town’s populations (ranging from under 10% to almost 50% in some towns/cities). This is why it is important to memorialize and recognize the rich Jewish tradition and history in Poland. For many Poles, their former Jewish neighbors are now mostly remembered through monuments and memorials. Many of these memorials are hidden by their natural surroundings. They can be easily missed if you are not actively looking for them or avoided as a way to negate Poland’s part in this tragedy. This museum presented an authentic view of the history of Jews in Poland focusing on their vibrant lives and contribution to Polish history and culture.
Comments