The Pawiak Prison Museum is one of the most important memorial sites in Warsaw, commemorating the victims of Nazi repression during World War II.
Located on the grounds of the former prison, the museum is filled with authentic artifacts, documents, and personal stories of those who endured the horrors of Pawiak—or lost their lives there.
It is a place of deep emotion and reflection, serving as a poignant reminder of the tragic fate of Warsaw’s residents.
History of Pawiak – A Prison with a Dark Reputation
Pawiak was established in 1835 as a Tsarist prison, and its grim history dates back to the era of the partitions. During World War II, after the German occupation began, it became a site of mass repression against Poles, including members of the resistance movement.
It is estimated that around 100,000 people passed through the prison—many of whom never made it out. The building was destroyed by the Germans in 1944, but its remains formed the foundation for the museum, which has been operating since 1965.
The Symbolic Pawiak Tree
In front of the museum stands a replica of the famous “Pawiak Tree”, one of the most powerful symbols of this site. The original tree, which once grew near the prison, witnessed the tragedies that unfolded at Pawiak over the years. The current metal replica serves as a memorial to the victims of repression—its trunk covered with plaques bearing the names of murdered prisoners. It is a deeply moving place, where families of victims, Warsaw residents, and tourists leave flowers and light candles in remembrance.
Among the hundreds of names engraved on the plaques, some stand out. One is Stanisław Moniuszko, the great-grandson of the renowned Polish composer of the same name, who was murdered by the Nazis during the occupation. Another particularly emotional plaque commemorates Stefan Bronisław Starzyński, the legendary mayor of Warsaw. A hero of September 1939, he became known for his unwavering leadership during the defense of the city. After being arrested by the Nazis, he was held in Pawiak and later brutally murdered by the Gestapo.
The plaques on the Pawiak Tree are not only a symbol of remembrance but also a testament to personal tragedies and acts of heroism in the face of unimaginable suffering. For many visitors, this site becomes a place of deep reflection on the history of Warsaw and its residents—those who paid the ultimate price for freedom and resilience in the face of occupation.
The Museum of Independence and its branches — the Pawiak Prison Museum and the Mausoleum of Struggle and Martyrdom — are open to visitors during the following hours:
– Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
– Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
– Thursday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
– Closed on Mondays
– Free admission on Thursdays
– Last admission: 30 minutes before closing time
Maja Berezowska – The Artist Who Survived Pawiak
Among those who endured the horrors of Pawiak was Maja Berezowska, a renowned Polish painter and graphic artist. Arrested by the Gestapo for creating satirical drawings mocking Adolf Hitler, she suffered through the brutal conditions of the prison before being deported to the Ravensbrück concentration camp. Her story is a powerful example of spiritual resilience and the strength of artistic expression that endured despite unimaginable hardships. You can read more about Maja Berezowska’s life and work in our dedicated article.
During her time in Pawiak, Berezowska managed to create several deeply moving works, despite the harrowing circumstances. One of her most well-known drawings depicts the door of prison cell number 7, which she described as a place of suffering and the struggle to survive. The drawing is a realistic portrayal of a prisoner’s daily reality—heavy locked doors, a closed peephole, and a nearby wall where farewell notes may have once been etched. This emotionally charged piece is not only a personal record of the artist’s experiences but also a precious historical document that helps us understand what life was like inside Pawiak.
Today, the drawing is on display at the Pawiak Prison Museum, serving as a powerful reminder of the unimaginable suffering endured by the prisoners—and their unbreakable spirit.
Visiting the Pawiak Prison Museum
The museum consists of two parts: a permanent exhibition and an outdoor memorial site. Inside, visitors can see original documents, personal belongings of prisoners, and reconstructed cells that vividly depict life inside Pawiak. The museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and educational events that help younger generations understand the tragic history of this place.
Important information for visitors: the museum is located at 24/26 Dzielna Street, and you should plan to spend about an hour there. It is a truly meaningful place—one that encourages reflection on the price of freedom and the values worth preserving.
📍 If the story of Pawiak moved you, be sure to explore the next tragic chapter – the executions in Palmiry. It was there, in the silence of the Kampinos Forest, that the fate of many Pawiak prisoners ended, as they were transported to their deaths.
The Palmiry Museum, modern yet profoundly moving, together with the nearby cemetery of victims of Nazi terror, forms one of Poland’s most significant national memorial sites.
Visit our article to uncover a history that still calls for remembrance:
Palmiry Museum – A Testament to Atrocity and Memory.
🏛 The Pawiak Prison Museum is one of the most moving places in Warsaw – perfect for a reflective evening during Night of Museums.
👉 Check out the full route: Night of Museums