The Intangible Heritage Interpretation Centre of Krakow — also known as the House under the Cross — is a place where Kraków’s traditions, customs and civic ceremonies are presented in a contemporary way. It’s not just a collection of objects but a space where you can learn why local customs exist: from Kraków’s nativity scenes (szopki) to the Lajkonik procession. A visit gives context to walks around the city and makes everyday sights in the Old Town feel richer.
The Centre is located at Szpitalna 21, so it’s easy to combine a visit with the Main Market Square or nearby museums and cafés. If you enjoy history up close — conversations, sounds and personal stories — the House under the Cross is worth adding to your must-see list.
Standard opening hours are Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00. In practice this means the museum is usually closed on Mondays and on selected public holidays; before you go it’s a good idea to check the current schedule because occasional closure days happen.
Last admissions for individual visitors are typically about 30 minutes before closing, while groups usually have a longer admission window — around 60 minutes before closing. Ticket prices typically include full-price and reduced-price options plus family tickets; there are also discounts for city cards and family programs. The museum can arrange guided tours for groups (group rates are provided by staff).
Tickets can be bought online through the museum’s ticketing system or at sales points associated with the Museum of Krakow. Buying in advance helps you avoid queues at the entrance — the simplest way to 'skip the line' during busy tourist periods.
The Centre is in the very heart of the city at Szpitalna 21, so the fastest way to get there is by tram or on foot from the Main Market Square. The nearest tram stops serve lines going toward the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre. From many parts of the city a tram trip is convenient and quick.
If you plan to visit during the summer season or on weekends, choose a time outside the busiest hours — typically late morning just after opening or outside rush-hour evenings. That way both entering and exploring the exhibition will be more relaxed.
The Centre participates in accessibility programs — if you need assistance (for example audio description or wheelchair access), it’s a good idea to contact the visitor services in advance to confirm facilities and any reservations.
The museum doesn’t always offer special commercial-style 'skip the line' tickets; the most reliable way to avoid queueing is to buy your ticket online and come at a less crowded time.
Booking for special events or workshops (which are often limited) usually gives priority to people with reservations — so when planning to attend a particular class or guided session, reserve your spot in advance.
If you’re arriving with a group, contact the Centre ahead of time — staff can arrange a convenient entry time and prepare a short guided tour or workshop, which helps visits run smoothly.
The exhibition focuses on Kraków’s intangible heritage: local rites, customs, crafts and civic ceremonies. You’ll find displays dedicated to phenomena such as Kraków nativity scenes (szopkarstwo), the Lajkonik tradition and workshops by local masters. The exhibition combines multimedia materials, museum objects and stories from the tradition bearers.
If you want to ‘go behind the scenes’ of the city’s culture, pay special attention to sections with films and sound recordings — these often convey the atmosphere of the rituals better than objects alone. A walkthrough usually takes 45–90 minutes depending on your pace and interest in interactive stations.
After your visit, stop at one of the nearby well-rated cafés or restaurants. The Old Town area offers a range of elegant restaurants serving local and international dishes as well as cozy cafés perfect for a dessert or coffee after sightseeing.
If you’re looking for accommodation close to the Centre, choose hotels or guesthouses with good reviews in the Old Town or Kazimierz — that way an evening stroll through the monuments is easy and morning visits to museums are convenient.
Assuming the museum is open every day — the House under the Cross is usually closed on Mondays and on selected public holidays; check current notices before you leave.
Buying a ticket only at the desk during peak season — it’s better to buy online or come outside the busiest hours to save time.
Not reserving spots for workshops or guided tours — many events have limited places, and registration guarantees participation.
How long does a visit take? Usually 45–90 minutes, depending on your interest in the multimedia and interactive materials.
Can I take photos? In most parts of the permanent exhibition photography without flash is allowed, but always check at the entrance — rules may vary for temporary shows.
Are advance reservations required? Not always for the regular exhibition, but reservations are recommended and often required for workshops, special guided tours and group visits.
Is the Centre accessible for people with disabilities? The Centre works on accessibility; if you need specific accommodations, contact the staff in advance so they can prepare.
The House under the Cross is more than a museum — it collaborates with local creators and tradition bearers, so you may see authentic craft demonstrations or short talks by masters.
If you catch a workshop or regional event, it’s a great opportunity to buy a souvenir made by a local artisan — often unique objects you won’t find in standard tourist shops.
Share this guide with friends or on social media if you found the information helpful — it will help others plan their Kraków visit.
If you’d like a deeper, personalized visit tailored to your interests, consider booking a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Details and contact information are available on the guide’s website. This is an excellent way to combine a Centre visit with live storytelling about Kraków.
