A purpose-built contemporary art museum opened in 2011 on the site of Oskar Schindler’s former factory, presenting work from the last two decades by Polish and international artists.
At a glance
MOCAK is a 10,000-square-metre museum dedicated to contemporary art, located 3 kilometres south of Kraków’s historic centre. The building combines neomodern design with cultural programming that extends beyond exhibitions to include a library, bookshop, café and conservation laboratory.
History
The museum opened on 19 May 2011 following construction on a demolished section of Oskar Schindler’s factory complex—a site laden with historical significance. European Union funding supported the €16 million project, reflecting the museum’s importance to Poland’s cultural infrastructure and regional development.
What you see
Claudio Nardi designed the building around neomodern principles, creating a 4,000-square-metre exhibition space divided into focused sections. The permanent collection occupies the first floor, while the second floor hosts rotating temporary exhibitions, allowing the institution to remain responsive to contemporary artistic practice.
Cultural significance
MOCAK supports emerging and established contemporary artists through exhibition, acquisition and conservation. The collection emphasizes Polish creators—including Krzysztof Wodiczko and Robert Kuśmirowski—alongside international figures, positioning Kraków as a centre for contemporary art discourse in Central Europe.
Key facts
- Country: Poland
- City: Kraków
- Opened: 19 May 2011
- Coordinates: 50.025°N, 19.574°E
- Exhibition area: 4,000 square metres
- Total museum area: 10,000 square metres
- Architect: Claudio Nardi
Practical information & getting there
The museum is located 3 kilometres from Kraków’s city centre. Facilities include a library, bookshop and café. The building houses a contemporary art conservation laboratory. Visit the official website or contact the museum directly for current opening hours, admission prices and exhibition schedules.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →📷 Become a Cultural Heritage Online photographer
Share your photos of places: they stay published under your name as the author. The more they're seen, the more you get noticed — and soon a contest will reward the most appreciated photos.
Log in or sign up free to add a photoIs this page about you?
This page is read by travellers and heritage enthusiasts who find it on Google. Tell us how you are connected to this place and we will take it from there.