The Stained-Glass Workshop and Museum at al. Krasińskiego 23 is a unique spot: not only a gallery, but an active stained-glass workshop operating continuously since 1902. It's a so-called "living museum" — during a visit you can watch craftsmen at work and learn the stages of creating a stained-glass window.
The building that houses the workshop was erected in the early 20th century and was designed specifically for workshop use. Because of that, the layout of rooms and the equipment still reflect working methods from over a hundred years ago.
The studio was founded by Stanisław Gabriel Żeleński; over the years leading artists of the Young Poland movement collaborated with it — including Stanisław Wyspiański and Józef Mehoffer. Their designs and aesthetic left a lasting mark on Krakow's stained glass.
The building's architecture and the workshop's layout were planned to support every stage of stained-glass production — from cutting and painting glass to assembly. Original furniture, tools and the interior layout create an atmosphere that's hard to experience elsewhere.
In the museum you'll see both historic commissions (including early 20th-century designs) and contemporary stained glass, as well as temporary exhibitions exploring different aspects of glass art.
A walk through two levels of the workshop: exhibitions are integrated with the working space so you can observe production stages up close.
The Gallery of Young Poland Masters of Stained Glass with designs by Wyspiański and Mehoffer along with other important cartoons and executed works.
Temporary shows presenting contemporary experiments with glass, installations and educational projects. The museum often organises outdoor art events and hands-on workshops.
Visits are conducted as guided tours — the museum is a working workshop, so entry is possible only with a stained-glass guide. Plan ahead, especially if you come in a group.
The museum runs educational classes and workshops (for children, youth and adults) — a great option for Erasmus group bonding or practical art-history sessions.
For students: check for available student discounts and special days. The museum also organises morning sessions and weekend workshops, which tend to be affordable and have a shorter, practical format.
Location: al. Krasińskiego 23 — the site is well connected by tram and bus. Walking from the Main Market takes about 20–30 minutes, so it's a convenient afternoon outing after classes.
Start: The Stained-Glass Workshop and Museum (45–60 min). Pay attention to the workshop and the permanent exhibition.
Walk: head toward the Planty or take a short route to nearby cafés — a good moment to discuss observations and take photos (remember the museum's photography rules).
Extras: if you have more time, combine the visit with nearby museums or a trip to Kazimierz — in the evening it's a great area for coffee and an inexpensive student-friendly meal.
For the afternoon, look for local cafés with a cozy atmosphere and reasonable prices — ideal for conversations after the visit.
Classic, reliable choices: cafés and small bistros around the Old Town and Kazimierz offer good coffee and affordable pastries — a convenient option for a student outing.
If you'd like something more substantial, pick restaurants with good reviews known for quality ingredients and a friendly atmosphere — great when you want to invite new exchange friends.
The workshop regularly organises sessions for different age groups: from short family classes to more intensive craft courses. It's an excellent way to learn glass techniques hands-on and create a small keepsake.
For art students or anyone interested in crafts, a workshop can be not only an enjoyable experience but also a source of inspiration and practical material for projects.
If you're planning a group visit (for example an Erasmus integration), reserve in advance — the workshop offers programmes tailored to groups.
The workshop building wasn't designed by chance — the tenement was planned specifically with the needs of stained-glass work in mind, making it a rare example of utility architecture tied to a particular craft.
The Krakow studio completed hundreds of commissions — stained-glass windows signed by this workshop can be found throughout the city, and some Young Poland designs still decorate historic churches and buildings.
The museum blends tradition with innovation — alongside historic pieces you'll often find experimental contemporary works and glass-based installations.
Showing up without checking opening hours or without a reservation (if you're planning a group) — the museum functions as a working studio, so visiting hours can be limited.
Confusing the museum with a standalone gallery — this place combines exhibition space with an active workshop; be prepared to see people working and to hear workshop sounds.
Disrespecting staff or house rules (for example touching exhibits) — following the rules helps preserve the place's special character.
Can I visit on my own? - Tours are guided; individual visitors should check the scheduled entry times, and groups should book in advance.
Are there student discounts? - The museum generally offers reduced tickets; bring a valid student ID and check current conditions before your visit.
How long does a visit last? - Standard guided tours last about 45–60 minutes, plus extra time if you join a workshop or view a temporary exhibition.
If you're on Erasmus or studying in Krakow, visiting the Stained-Glass Workshop and Museum is more than an art-history lesson — it's a chance to feel the city's connections to major names in Polish culture and to see how craft tradition lives on today.
Share your impressions with classmates — this experience works especially well in a group. If this article helped you, share it on social media or send it to friends.
If you'd like to visit with a private guide, Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz) organises guided tours — please contact her through the guide's official website or the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com page for details and bookings.
