Józef Wybicki i jego czasy

Józef Wybicki went down in history as the author of Poland Is Not Yet Lost - the song that became our national anthem. The exhibition presents his figure holistically against the background of the fate of Poland and Europe. Wybicki is presented not only as a poet, but also as a politician, lawyer, general or innovator, and above all as an ardent patriot. The venue of the exhibition is the oldest part of Wybicki's Manor (this is where the author of the anthem was born in 1747). The historical interiors showcase old furniture and numerous memorabilia bearing witness to the history of the building. On display in the place of honour is a facsimile of the manuscript of Song of the Polish Legions in Italy (the anthem's original version). The original manuscript was lost during the Second World War; today it is probably in Russia. The most valuable, and at the same time the most interesting objects include: decorations—the contemporary Order of the White Eagle and the Order of the Legion of Honour 1852–1870, a portrait of Prince Józef Poniatowski, letters of Józef Wybicki and a collection of patriotic song books. The exhibits come from the National Anthem Museum's own collection and from the Royal Castle in Warsaw, the National Museum in Warsaw and the Polish Army Museum in Warsaw.