Maximilian Center Harmęże Labyrinths
A powerful exhibition of Auschwitz survivor art, a beautiful church, and a place for spiritual reflection and learning.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Allows for reflection post-visit
Maximilian Center Harmęże Labyrinths
Best Time
Allows for reflection post-visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A powerful exhibition of Auschwitz survivor art, a beautiful church, and a place for spiritual reflection and learning.
"The Labyrinths of Memory exhibition is a poignant and unforgettable experience, deeply moving visitors."
Book a Guided Tour
Highly recommended to understand the art's depth and historical context.
Allow Ample Time
The exhibition is extensive and emotionally impactful; don't rush your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Labyrinths of Memory Exhibition
Basement of the church
A powerful and poignant art exhibition by Auschwitz survivor Marian Kołodziej, depicting his harrowing experiences.
Church Interior
Beautiful church with unique Stations of the Cross, offering a moment of reflection.
Icon Painting Workshops
Participate in workshops to learn the art of icon painting, focusing on themes like the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Labyrinths' Impact
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a Guided Tour
Highly recommended to understand the art's depth and historical context. +1
Allow Ample Time
The exhibition is extensive and emotionally impactful; don't rush your visit.
Prepare Emotionally
The content is intense; be ready for a profound and moving experience.
Visit After Auschwitz
Many find it beneficial to visit the Labyrinths after touring Auschwitz.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a Guided Tour
Highly recommended to understand the art's depth and historical context. +1
Allow Ample Time
The exhibition is extensive and emotionally impactful; don't rush your visit.
Prepare Emotionally
The content is intense; be ready for a profound and moving experience.
Visit After Auschwitz
Many find it beneficial to visit the Labyrinths after touring Auschwitz.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are deeply moved by the 'Labyrinths of Memory' exhibition, praising its profound artistic and emotional impact as a testament to survivor Marian Kołodziej's experiences. The church's beauty and the center's spiritual offerings are also appreciated. Some note the intensity of the exhibition requires preparation and a guide for full comprehension.
"In the basement of the church there is an interesting exhibition by a former prisoner, which is not to be missed. The interior of the church is beautiful and I was intrigued by the unusual depiction of the Stations of the Cross."
Hama
"Loved visiting “The Labyrinth” exhibition here, showcasing the wonderful and horrific illustrations of Auschwitz survivor Marian Kołodziej. Hand down the best art exhibition I have been to, you can really feel the turmoil Kołodziej suffered through after his experiences in Auschwitz. The detail on the bodies, the expressions in the thousands of faces, and the emaciated faces and exhausted eyes of real victims is a very poignant experience. The scale of illustrations he produced and the symbols in each one is truly immense and awe inspiring. If you visit Auschwitz, make sure you leave time to visit here afterwards (with a tour guide to explain the pieces to you!)"
Ashley Roberts
"Great experience visiting the exhibition "Negatives of a Memory. Labyrinths." By Marian Kołodziej.
I would recommend visiting with a tour guide who knows about the artist and explains you the meaning behind some of the most important pieces in the exhibition"
Imelda Cardenas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The center is located in Harmęże. Public transport options might be limited, so consider driving or arranging private transport. Check local schedules for bus routes if available.
Information on parking availability is not widely shared, but it's advisable to inquire with the center directly or check local parking regulations if arriving by car.
Yes, many visitors combine a visit to the Labyrinths with their Auschwitz tour, often visiting afterwards to process the experience. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, especially depending on the season and any special events. It's best to check the official website or contact the center directly for the most up-to-date information.
While advance booking might not always be mandatory, it's recommended, especially during peak seasons or if you plan to join a guided tour. This ensures your entry and preferred time slot.
Admission fees typically apply to the Labyrinths exhibition. Information on pricing for other areas like the church or workshops should be sought from the center.
Discount policies can change. It's advisable to inquire directly with the Maximilian Center about any available concessions for students, seniors, or group visits.
Generally, access to the church itself might be separate from the exhibition. However, it's best to confirm the specific access policies with the center.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a powerful art exhibition by Marian Kołodziej, an Auschwitz survivor, featuring his drawings that vividly depict the horrors of the concentration camp. +1
A guided tour is highly recommended by visitors to fully understand the symbolism and emotional weight of Kołodziej's artwork. +1
The atmosphere is deeply moving and somber, reflecting the tragic events depicted. Visitors often describe it as a poignant and unforgettable experience.
Yes, the center also hosts retreats, icon painting workshops, and offers opportunities to learn about St. Father Maximilian Kolbe.
Due to its intense and sensitive subject matter, the exhibition is generally recommended for mature audiences who can process difficult historical themes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The center has a common room that functions as a café, offering refreshments. For more extensive dining, nearby towns might have more options.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks in designated areas like the café. Check the center's policies regarding outside food.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's common for sensitive exhibitions like this to restrict photography to protect the artwork and maintain the solemn atmosphere. Always check signage or ask staff.
While the exhibition itself might have restrictions, the church interior and the surrounding grounds could offer photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Families with Kids
However, the church itself and potentially some of the spiritual aspects of the center might be more accessible. If visiting with family, focus on the church's beauty and the educational aspects of St. Maximilian Kolbe's life, rather than the Labyrinths exhibition, unless children are older teenagers with a strong understanding of historical context.
History Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with a tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau for a comprehensive understanding. The center also provides context on St. Father Maximilian Kolbe, a significant figure whose story is intertwined with the history of the camp. Consider booking a guided tour to gain the most insightful historical context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Marian Kołodziej
Many visitors strongly recommend engaging a guided tour to fully appreciate the nuances and historical context of Kołodziej's work. Guides can illuminate the symbolism within the drawings and provide deeper insights into the artist's life and the atrocities of Auschwitz. This makes the visit not just an observation of art, but an educational and empathetic journey.
The scale and intensity of the illustrations are frequently mentioned, with reviewers noting the immense detail in the emaciated figures and the expressions of exhaustion and pain. It's an exhibition that leaves a lasting impression, prompting reflection on the human capacity for both cruelty and survival.
Spiritual and Educational Retreats
Visitors can participate in daily Holy Mass, adoration, and conferences held in the on-site chapel, which is adorned with icons. The center also provides opportunities to learn about Mother of God and St. Father Maximilian Kolbe, the namesake of the center, and his historical context. This blend of artistic, historical, and spiritual elements makes it a multifaceted destination.
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