Museums

The Armoury in Sandomierz

Beneath a townhouse on the market square known as Konwikt Boboli, with the entrance from Bartolona Street, hides a place where old weapons do not sit behind glass. The Knightly Armoury in Sandomierz, run by the Banner of the Knighthood of the Sandomierz Land, is based on a simple rule: everything can — indeed must — be touched.

Weapons within arm’s reach

The exhibition fills the historic cellars: pikes, halberds and spears stand next to edged weapons — swords, axes and rapiers — as well as shields and helmets. The heavier calibre is represented by cannons from the 15th and 17th centuries, hackbuts and muskets. A separate, dark chamber holds the torture room with racks, a pillory and shaming masks, known as masks of shame.

Armour that teaches humility

The biggest attraction is trying on armour, a helmet or a lady-in-waiting’s gown — and finding out for yourself just how heavy and uncomfortable a knight’s armour really is. A sword or a crossbow also passes from hand to hand, and photography is allowed without restrictions. The whole visit takes about 30 minutes and works best as a living history lesson for families with children — the guide tells the story of a knight’s everyday life without white gloves.

In practice

The entrance is from Bartolona Street, at Market Square 5, so the site fits neatly into a stroll around Sandomierz’s old town. From April to October the armoury is open daily from 10:00 to 16:00; from November to March it is open only by telephone appointment. Tickets cost PLN 9 (regular) and PLN 7 (reduced). After leaving, simply cross the market square to see the cathedral, the castle or the Opatów Gate.