The Long Route to Poland's Round Table Agreement

On 6 February 1989, the Round Table discussions began. During those negotiations, representatives of the Communist authorities and the Solidarity opposition sought common ground for further action. In large part, they discussed political issues, but not only: they talked as well about the economy, administring justice, ecology, even housing policy. This agreement became possible thanks…


Grażyna Bacewicz: “The First Lady of Polish Music”

When Grażyna Bacewicz’s compositions were performed outside Poland, she occasionally received letters addressed to  “Dear Mister Bacewicz” or “Cher Monsieur Grażyna Bacewicz.” Even in the latter half of the 20th century, some found it hard to believe that a woman could be a true creator, assuming that gender played a significant role in artistic talent….


A Jesuit who struck like lightning

During his life and also after his death, Piotr Skarga divided the opinions of Poles. For some he was “the main troublemaker of the Republic of Poland,” and for others he was a prophet of “the misery after the partitions,” who by all means tried to save the sinking ship – Poland. by Jan Hlebowicz…


Johannes Hevelius: via beer, on to the stars

He was a Gdańsk patrician and councillor who, thanks to his income from beer production, was able to conduct groundbreaking observations of space. He was one of the most eminent astronomers of 17th-century Europe and the creator of scientific knowledge of the Moon. by Jan Hlebowicz   Johannes Hevelius (1611–1687) was born and grew up…



The Feast of the Epiphany in Polish tradition

Three Kings Day, commonly known as the Epiphany, is one of the oldest Christian holidays. Celebrated on 6 January, it symbolizes the revelation of God in the form of Christ born in Bethlehem. In current times, a holy mass is celebrated in churches on this day, and colorful processions featuring the Three Magi wind through…


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