Czartoryski Museum, Krakow

The Czartoryski Museum, founded in 1796 by Princess Izabela Czartoryska, stands as a testament to the artistic endeavors of five generations within the Czartoryski family. Spanning epochs of movement, concealment, and even loss, the current collection available to the public is but a fraction of the original.

Encompassing the motto "From the Past to the Future," Princess Izabela inaugurated the museum in Pulawy, with the intent of safeguarding a trove of Polish and historical artifacts. Among these treasures emerged da Vinci's iconic masterpiece, 'The Lady with an Ermine,' thoughtfully incorporated by Izabela's son, Adam, following his sojourn in Italy. A shift to Paris occurred for Adam after an unsuccessful political stint, accompanied by the collection now housed at Hotel Lambert.

Adam's descendants, Prince Wladyslaw and Princess Izabela Działyńska, added to the collection. In 1878, Prince Wladyslaw's return to Poland led to the founding of the modern Czartoryski Museum. His son, Adam Ludwik, and spouse further expanded the collection. World War II brought tragedy as the Germans looted the museum, resulting in the loss of many artifacts. Despite recovery attempts, over 800 pieces are now irretrievable.

Temporarily shuttered since 2010 for refurbishments and modernization endeavors, the museum's revival is anticipated in 2019. Meanwhile, select portions of the collection find refuge in alternative venues. Within the Arsenal building, 350 carefully chosen exhibits find display, while the esteemed 'Lady with an Ermine' graces the halls of the Kraków National Museum. This saga of the museum's history is one that should be embraced by all.