Facade of Synagoga Bne Emuna in Krakow with architectural details

Judaica Foundation – Center For Jewish Culture

Judaica Foundation Center for Jewish Culture Kraków: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Kraków’s historic Kazimierz district, the Judaica Foundation – Center for Jewish Culture is among Poland’s most significant institutions dedicated to the preservation and revitalization of Jewish heritage. Housed in the beautifully restored 19th-century B’nai Emuna prayer house at ul. Meiselsa 17, the Foundation stands as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Kraków’s Jewish community. Since its establishment in 1991, it has grown into a dynamic hub for exhibitions, educational programs, concerts, workshops, and intercultural dialogue, inviting visitors to engage with Jewish culture both past and present (Trek Zone; krakow.wiki; Lonely Planet).

This guide provides up-to-date practical information, historical context, and cultural insights to help you plan a meaningful visit to the Judaica Foundation, including nearby attractions, ticketing, accessibility, and event highlights.

Facade of Synagoga Bne Emuna in Krakow with historical architecture

Exterior of Bne Emuna Synagogue in Krakow, historic religious architecture

Bne Emuna Synagogue exterior in Krakow, Poland

Architectural project of Bnei Emuna Synagogue in Krakow from 1866

Introduction
Origins and Historical Context
Restoration and Transformation
Visitor Information
Cultural and Educational Significance
Current Activities and Events
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning Your Visit
References

Origins and Historical Context

The Judaica Foundation’s roots trace to the 1980s, when Kraków’s Jewish leaders recognized the urgent need to preserve their city’s Jewish heritage in the aftermath of the Holocaust and communist-era neglect. Officially established in 1991, the Foundation aimed to restore not only physical spaces but also the communal and cultural memory of Polish Jewry (Trek Zone).

The Foundation occupies the former Beit Midrash B’nai Emuna—once a spiritual study house for the Jewish community. After decades of disrepair, the building underwent extensive restoration, supported by local government, international Jewish organizations, and private donors (Tempel.pl).

Restoration and Transformation

Restoration efforts began in 1991 and focused on preserving original architectural details while adapting the building for cultural and educational purposes. Today, the site combines historic authenticity with modern amenities, including exhibition galleries, performance spaces, a café, and a unique antiquarian bookshop focused on Jewish ceremonial art (In Your Pocket; jewishkrakow.net).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Hours may vary during special events or holidays. Always check the official website before your visit.

Tickets and Admission

General Admission: 15 PLN
Reduced (students, seniors): 10 PLN
Children under 7: Free
Tickets are available at the entrance or via the official website.
Some special events or exhibitions may require separate tickets or advance booking.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are available in Polish, English, and Hebrew by appointment.
Advance booking is recommended, especially during festival periods or group visits.

Accessibility

The building is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Accessible restrooms are available.
Multilingual staff provide assistance; visitors with special needs are encouraged to contact in advance (+48 12 430 64 49).

Getting There

Address: ul. Meiselsa 17, Kazimierz, Kraków
Public Transport: Tram lines 3, 8, and 13 stop at Plac Nowy, a short walk from the Foundation.
Parking: Limited; public transport is strongly recommended.
Walking: Easily accessible on foot from other Kazimierz attractions.

Cultural and Educational Significance

The Foundation’s mission is encapsulated in its motto, “L’dor v’dor” (“from generation to generation”), reflecting dedication to passing down Jewish culture and values. Through its varied cultural, educational, and scholarly activities, the Foundation fosters intercultural dialogue and serves as a bridge between Jewish and non-Jewish communities (krakow.wiki; krakow-info.com).

Key Programs

Regular lectures, panel discussions, and conferences on Jewish history, art, and philosophy.
Annual highlights like the Aleksander and Alicja Hetz Memorial Lecture and the “Bayit Hadash” (Month of Encounters with Jewish Culture).
Educational workshops for schools, families, and the public in Hebrew calligraphy, Jewish cooking, crafts, and music.
Language courses in Hebrew and Yiddish offered periodically.
Community and interfaith events, including Holocaust Remembrance Day and interfaith dialogue meetings.

Current Activities and Events

Exhibitions and Installations

The Foundation curates rotating exhibitions featuring Jewish art, history, and contemporary creativity. The main hall and gallery spaces host works by both local and international artists, with regular artist talks and guided tours (Lonely Planet).

Music, Film, and Literary Events

Year-round concerts featuring klezmer, classical, and modern Jewish music.
Film screenings, book launches, and poetry readings.
The annual Jewish Culture Festival in late June/early July, with concerts, lectures, and workshops.

Community Engagement

The Foundation serves as a gathering place for Kraków’s Jewish community and international visitors, with a vibrant calendar of events and opportunities for volunteer involvement (Tempel.pl).

Nearby Attractions

A visit to the Judaica Foundation is easily combined with other key sites in Kazimierz:

Old Synagogue Museum
Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery
Galicia Jewish Museum
Plac Nowy (New Square) with its market and food stalls
Temple Synagogue (ul. Miodowa 24)

Guided tours often begin or end at the Foundation and provide a comprehensive introduction to Jewish Kraków (Lonely Planet).

Visitor Tips

Check Event Schedules: Visit the official website or Kraków’s cultural calendar before your trip.
Avoid Crowds: Weekday mornings and early afternoons are quieter.
Combine Visits: Explore nearby historical sites in Kazimierz for a full experience.
Souvenirs: The on-site antique store offers unique Judaica and books.
Photography: Allowed in most areas, but flash and tripods are restricted.
Wi-Fi: Complimentary throughout the building.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Judaica Foundation’s visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Saturdays.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Yes, general admission is 15 PLN; reduced tickets for students/seniors are 10 PLN; children under 7 enter free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages by appointment.

Q: Is the Foundation wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with accessible restrooms and elevators.

Q: How do I get there?
A: By tram (lines 3, 8, 13) to Plac Nowy, or on foot from other Kazimierz attractions.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Yes, except with flash and tripods; some exhibitions may have restrictions.

Q: Are events held in English?
A: Many events and exhibitions are in English or offer translation.

Planning Your Visit

Advance Booking: Recommended for guided tours, workshops, and special events.
Official Website: For the latest updates, tickets, and contact info, visit judaica.pl.
Contact: Phone +48 12 430 64 49, or use the contact form.
Download the Audiala App: Enhance your visit with guided audio tours and interactive maps.

Summary and Final Tips

The Judaica Foundation – Center for Jewish Culture is more than a museum; it is a living center of cultural memory, creativity, and intercultural exchange in Kraków’s historic Jewish quarter. Its accessible facilities, diverse programming, and welcoming community make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Jewish heritage or Kraków’s rich history. Plan ahead, check current schedules, and consider combining your visit with other Kazimierz attractions for a truly immersive experience (judaica.pl; Tempel.pl; krakow-info.com).