Jerzy Giedroyc, Józef Czapski and “Kultura” in the Museum of the Second World War

History Experienced, History Told: War and Totalitarianism in Literature

In 2026, we celebrate the Year of Jerzy Giedroyc, established by the Senate of the Republic of Poland, and the Year of Józef Czapski, established by the Sejm of the Republic of Poland. On this occasion, October 10, 2026 (Saturday), we invite you to a full-day event dedicated to the creators of the Parisian “Culture” and the relationship of literature with the experience of war and totalitarianism. Free admission.

In addition to Giedroyc and Czapski, we will recall the figures and works of Gustav Herling-Grudziński and Jan Józef Szczepanski, as well as Vasily Grossman and Warlam Szalamow — authors less known to the Polish public, whose testimony is part of the same reflection on the fate of a man entangled in the history of the 20th century.

The day will be opened by a solemn presentation of a temporary exhibition dedicated to the Literary Institute. We will see unique artifacts related to Józef Czapski and Jerzy Giedroyc, obtained thanks to cooperation with the Literary Institute, among others souvenirs after their service in the Anders Army.