Children in Dom Sierot orphanage in Warsaw 1940

Korczak'S Orphanages

Korczak’s Orphanages in Warsaw: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Janusz Korczak’s orphanages in Warsaw stand as enduring symbols of humanitarianism, innovative education, and resilience in the face of tragedy. Established in the early 20th century, these institutions embodied Korczak’s revolutionary philosophy centered on respect, dignity, and child empowerment. Today, the sites associated with his work serve as important memorials and educational centers, offering visitors a chance to connect deeply with Warsaw’s Jewish heritage and the history of children’s rights.

This guide provides detailed information on the historical context of Korczak’s orphanages, practical advice for visiting—including hours and ticketing—accessibility tips, and suggestions for making the most of your experience in Warsaw. Whether you are a cultural traveler, educator, or student, exploring these sites offers powerful insights into both Poland’s past and the universal value of compassion for children.

One of the buildings of the Różyczka complex in Wawer district Warsaw

Historic building of the Państwowa Szkoła Handlowa Męska im. J. i M. Roeslerów in Warsaw on Chłodna Street 33

Child care in Warsaw Ghetto possibly at Korczak orphanage

Historical Background
Visiting Korczak’s Orphanage Sites Today
Memorials and Monuments
Practical Visitor Information & Tips
Commemorative Events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Call to Action
References and External Links

Historical Background

Early 20th-Century Warsaw and Janusz Korczak

During the early 1900s, Warsaw was home to one of the largest Jewish communities in Europe, but also faced social inequalities and mounting antisemitism. Janusz Korczak (born Henryk Goldszmit in 1879), a respected pediatrician and educator, championed the rights and dignity of children amidst these challenges (AboutHolocaust.org).

Founding and Philosophy of Korczak’s Orphanages

In 1912, Korczak became director of the Dom Sierot (Orphan’s Home) at 92 Krochmalna Street. Together with Stefania Wilczyńska, he created a home based on progressive, child-centered principles: children’s self-governance, a system of peer courts, and a curriculum tailored to individual interests. These ideas, expounded in works like “How to Love a Child” and “The Child’s Right to Respect,” later shaped international approaches to children’s rights (ResearchGate).

The Orphanage During the Warsaw Ghetto

With the Nazi occupation, the orphanage was forced to move into the Warsaw Ghetto—first to Chłodna Street, then Sienna 16. Korczak refused offers of escape, remaining with his orphans until their tragic deportation to Treblinka in 1942. His unwavering commitment made him a symbol of moral courage and self-sacrifice (Holocaust Education UK).

Visiting Korczak’s Orphanage Sites Today

Location and Access

Dom Sierot (Original Orphanage): 92 Krochmalna Street, Warsaw. The building exterior and commemorative plaques are accessible year-round.
Ghetto Relocation Sites: 33 Chłodna Street and 16 Sienna Street, both with historical markers. Sites are centrally located and easily walkable.
Janusz Korczak Monument: Świętokrzyski Park, near the Palace of Culture and Science.
Okopowa Street Jewish Cemetery: 49/51 Okopowa Street, housing Korczak’s cenotaph.

Public transport (tram, bus, metro) connects all major sites. For schedules and tickets, visit ZTM Warsaw.

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Dom Sierot (Krochmalna 92): Exterior accessible at all times. No regular interior access, except for special guided visits.
Ghetto Relocation Sites: Plaques visible from the street 24/7; no entry fee.
Janusz Korczak Monument: Outdoor, accessible year-round, free of charge.
Okopowa Jewish Cemetery: Open Sunday–Friday (typically 9 AM–5 PM), closed Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Entry: 10–20 PLN.
Our Home (Jaktorowska 6): Open to visitors seasonally; free entry for individuals and small groups; group visits and tours require advance booking (domdziecka-korczak.waw.pl).

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Specialized Tours: Available through local Jewish heritage organizations and Warsaw museums. Tours typically include Dom Sierot, Ghetto relocation sites, and the Korczak Monument.
Educational Workshops: Offered at select sites and partner museums, including the POLIN Museum (POLIN Museum).
Booking: Recommended in advance, especially for English-language tours.

Accessibility and Facilities

Most outdoor sites are wheelchair accessible.
The Jewish Cemetery has uneven terrain; assistance may be necessary.
Restrooms and cafés are available near Świętokrzyski Park and the city center.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit with these related sites:

POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews: Comprehensive exhibits on Jewish life in Poland.
Warsaw Ghetto Memorial: Commemorates the site of the former Ghetto.
Palace of Culture and Science: Landmark visible from Świętokrzyski Park.

Memorials and Monuments

Janusz Korczak Monument (Świętokrzyski Park): A powerful sculpture depicting Korczak with children, symbolizing his lifelong commitment (Monuments Remembrance).
Okopowa Cemetery Cenotaph: Memorializes Korczak and his orphans, with accompanying Holocaust memorials (In Your Pocket).
Commemorative Plaques: Bilingual markers at Krochmalna, Chłodna, and Sienna Streets recount the orphanage’s history.

Practical Visitor Information & Tips

Respectful Conduct: These are places of remembrance; maintain a respectful demeanor, especially near school groups or survivor families.
Language: Most plaques and museum materials are in Polish and English. Guided tours enhance understanding.
Photography: Allowed at outdoor memorials; exercise discretion at the cemetery and during commemorative events.
Weather: Dress for the season; much of the tour is outdoors.
Planning: Allocate at least half a day to see the main sites; a full day allows visits to museums and nearby attractions.

Commemorative Events

International Children’s Day (June 1): Ceremonies at the Korczak Monument, including educational programs.
Warsaw Ghetto Uprising Anniversary (April 19): Memorials often reference Korczak and his children.
Korczak’s Deportation Anniversary (August 5): Annual remembrance events at key sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need tickets to visit Korczak’s orphanage sites?
A: Outdoor memorials and plaques are free. The Jewish Cemetery charges a modest entry fee.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, bookable through local organizations and museums. Advance booking is recommended for English-speaking guides.

Q: Are these sites accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Most outdoor sites are accessible; check with specific locations for details.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: Spring to autumn offers pleasant weather. June 1 (Children’s Day) and April 19 (Ghetto Uprising Anniversary) are especially meaningful.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, but be respectful, especially in the cemetery and during ceremonies.

Summary and Call to Action

Exploring Janusz Korczak’s orphanages and memorials in Warsaw offers a powerful educational and emotional journey through the history of child advocacy, humanitarianism, and resilience. These sites honor Korczak’s enduring legacy, encourage reflection on the value of compassion, and deepen understanding of Warsaw’s Jewish heritage.