On 3 December 2024, Erasmus+ students, accompanied by pedagogy students, took part in a unique cultural event organised by the International Cooperation Office (BWM). The visit to the Nowa Huta Museum - a branch of the Krakow Museum - was not only a journey back in time, but also a fascinating lesson in culture, history and the struggle for freedom. The students had the opportunity to visit two inspiring exhibitions: "Rebellion in the system. Musical spaces of freedom 1945-89" and "Nuclear threat".

Musical Spaces of Freedom
The first part of the visit was devoted to the exhibition "Rebellion in the System". The students entered the world of music, which was an expression of rebellion against the oppressive reality of communist Poland. From the first sounds of rock and roll to the screams of punk at the Jarocin Festival, the exhibition showed how different musical trends created spaces for freedom and artistic expression.

The guide introduced the participants to unknown facts, such as Edward Gierek's influence on the history of Polish rock'n'roll or the role of musicians in the army. The atmosphere was enriched by colourful comments and anecdotes from music enthusiast Aleksandra Mirek-Rogowska, who brought the cultural context into focus in an accessible way. Students also had the opportunity to view original concert posters, photographs, zines and unique instruments. The biggest surprise for many turned out to be the interactive dance zone, which awakened the participants' energy and desire to have fun, as well as the opportunity to pose with a tape recorder in front of the youth of Jarocin.

Underground and nuclear myths
The second part of the event was a visit to the exhibition "Nuclear threat", which introduced the students to the realities of Cold War propaganda and the history of the bunkers in Nowa Huta. With the help of a Polish-speaking guide and efficient translation by International Cooperation Office employees Tomasz Kniaź and Urszula Leszyńska, the participants were able to explore the mysteries of the underground spaces and learn about the myths surrounding the Nowa Huta shelters.

Most impressive of all was the opportunity to visit a real shelters located under the city of Nowa Huta. In the dark, cold corridors you could feel the atmosphere of danger and the need to survive that accompanied the inhabitants during the Cold War. The "Nuclear threat" exhibition, on the other hand, encouraged visitors to reflect on the instinctive need to hide from danger - from simple shelters to the most elaborate structures found around the world.

Shared experiences, unforgettable feelings
Students from both Poland and the Erasmus+ exchange were deeply impressed by both exhibitions. For many of them, it was the first time they had seen such a direct look at the history of communist Poland - from the side of rebellion, music and everyday concerns about the nuclear threat.

The trip was not only an opportunity to learn about Polish culture and history, but also to integrate into an international group. All participants agreed that it was an extraordinary experience that they will remember for a long time. The event showed that history and art can be an excellent tool to build intercultural bridges, as well as an inspiration to reflect on the contemporary meaning of freedom and security.