Hipolit House, Krakow – A Complete Guide

The Hipolit House is one of Krakow’s hidden gems. Antiques, tapestries, a creaky old piano – it’s all here.

Hidden in a Renaissance-era townhouse, the Hipolit House transports visitors back in time, showcasing the lavish interiors of a wealthy Krakow family from the 1800s. 

The exhibits are designed to recreate the domestic atmosphere of past centuries, with meticulously restored furniture, tapestries, and artwork. 

It’s a fascinating way to experience the history of Krakow from a personal and intimate perspective, all a short

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This is just one part of our complete guide to things to do in and around Krakow

What’s in this guide to Hipolit House, Krakow

Where is the Hipolit House (and how to get there)?

The Hipolit House is located at Plac Mariacki 3, right in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Main Market Square and RIGHT NEXT to the incredible Gothic rises of St Mary’s Basilica – which you can see from the entrance.

To reach the Hipolit House by foot, simply walk from Rynek Glowny in the direction of St. Mary’s Basilica. The house is situated on the same square as the basilica, only a couple of minutes away.

For those relying on public transport, the nearest tram stops are at Teatr Bagatela or Plac Wszystkich Świętych, both of which are about a 5-10 minute walk from the museum. Trams 2, 4, 8, and 13 serve these stops, and from there, it’s an easy stroll through the scenic streets of the Old Town. 

Truth is, first-time visitors should stay in or close to the Old Town area anyhow, which means the museum is usually within walking distance.

The history of Hipolit House

The Hipolit House is a historic building dating back to the 16th century, and it takes its name from the Hipolit family, a prominent noble family who owned the house for many years. Originally built as part of Krakow’s growing merchant and aristocratic district, the building has seen several reconstructions and changes throughout the centuries.

The building is a fine example of Renaissance residential architecture, although subsequent renovations during the Baroque and Rococo periods added to its rich and eclectic character. By the 17th and 18th centuries, the house was a bustling residence, filled with luxurious furniture, fine art, and elaborate decorative features reflecting the tastes of the noble families who lived there.

During its long history, the building passed through various hands before being turned into a museum in the 20th century. It is now part of the Historical Museum of Krakow, serving as an exhibition space that recreates the interiors of a bourgeois home from different historical periods.

Key features of the house include its stunning Renaissance façade, which has been carefully restored to maintain its historical integrity, and the various period rooms that transport visitors to different centuries of Krakow’s aristocratic life.

What to see at the Hipolit House

The Hipolit House is filled with fascinating exhibits that reflect the lifestyle of Krakow’s wealthier classes throughout the centuries. The museum is arranged over several floors, with each room dedicated to a particular period in history, offering visitors a close look at the domestic life of Krakow’s upper-class residents.

Here are the main highlights:

• Period rooms – The highlight of the Hipolit House is its meticulously recreated rooms, which showcase interior designs from the Baroque, Renaissance, and 19th century. You’ll see everything from grand dining rooms to cosy parlours, all adorned with period furniture, tapestries, and art. These rooms are meant to illustrate the evolution of the Krakow bourgeois lifestyle over the centuries.
• Biedermeier Salon – This elegant room is designed in the Biedermeier style, which was popular in the 19th century. Stroll in to spot intricately detailed furniture, delicate porcelain, and soft lighting. It’s a real look into what things would have been like for Krakow’s wealthy families during this era.
• Historical artefacts – The house is home to a wealth of artefacts, including original paintings, tapestries, and furniture from different periods in Krakow’s history. These items, often arranged as they would have been in the house during its occupation, help bring the history of the house to life.
• Temporary exhibits – In addition to its permanent collection, the Hipolit House regularly hosts temporary exhibits that focus on different aspects of domestic life in Krakow. These exhibits may feature anything from textile art to antique table settings, offering something new with each visit.
• Art and decoration – Visitors can also marvel at the beautifully decorated walls and ceilings, many of which feature period frescoes and stucco work. The attention to detail in each room’s décor offers insight into the styles that dominated Krakow’s upper-class homes.

The museum creates a uniquely immersive experience, allowing visitors to step into the daily lives of Krakow’s wealthiest families, and feel as though they have been transported back in time.