Oscar Shindler's Factory, Krakow (must see)

The story of Oscar Schindler's factory is widely recognized, largely due to the cinematic portrayal in Steven Spielberg's movie, 'Schindler's List.' Originally a German industrialist driven by profiting from the German invasion of Poland, Schindler's transformation was profound as he eventually played a pivotal role in rescuing numerous Jewish lives from the torment and certain death that loomed in the death camps.

Arriving in Poland in 1939, Schindler acquired a struggling enamelware factory through bankruptcy proceedings. Collaborating with Itzhak Stern, a German-speaking Jewish accountant, he enlisted the labor of 1000 Jewish workers for his enterprise. Exploiting the availability of workers from Jewish camps, who were economically advantageous, the factory flourished. This success propelled Schindler up the social hierarchy, aligning him with the Nazi administration in Poland. Despite his initial pursuit of financial gain, Schindler was confronted with the dire situation of Jews being herded and transported to Płaszów, where mass executions were rampant. This shocking reality prompted Schindler to shield his employees, resorting to bribery, negotiation, and advocating for those deemed unfit for labor.

The museum houses an array of photographs, documents, and tools that once functioned within the factory. Stepping into the factory evokes a palpable sense of the era marked by invasion and the accompanying struggles. It offers a somber, thought-provoking encounter, particularly for history enthusiasts. If you hold an appreciation for history, this is undoubtedly a destination of significance.

Why You Should Visit:
This museum experience is unique, and the information is presented with an unforgettable perspective.

Tip:
You need to pre-book your ticket online (www.bilety.mhk.pl) for this extremely busy historical site, as the organization is rather poor with regard to the ticket office.
Consider getting a guide on-site for a 'whirlwind' tour; otherwise, plan to spend a few hours to fully engage with all the content as there's so much to read and look at!