Discover Wolin: Museum, Archaeology and City History

Museum and the Island’s History

The Muzeum Regionalne im. Andrzeja Kaubego is one of Wolin’s oldest cultural institutions; it was founded in 1966. Its permanent exhibitions explore the earliest settlement history of Wolin Island and archaeological topics from the city’s heyday in the 9th to 11th centuries. The museum thus brings together the island’s long history of settlement and Wolin’s role in a later era.

A model depicts Wolin around the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. It complements the archaeological topics with a view of the city in a much more recent period. Those interested in historical change can consider different periods in context, rather than limiting Wolin’s history to a single century.

Archaeological Traces: Wzgórze Wisielców and Srebrne Wzgórze

The burial ground on Wzgórze Wisielców is one of the oldest early medieval necropolises in Western Pomerania. At the end of the 19th century, 93 burial mounds were counted there; 34 have survived. Comparing these two figures brings into focus the difference between the number that existed at the time and the mounds that remain today, giving the site a tangible historical dimension.

Srebrne Wzgórze reveals another facet of the city’s early history: a large industrial and trading district was established there in the 9th century, fortified by a defensive rampart and equipped with its own harbor. The processing of horn and amber was particularly well developed. Trade, crafts and fortifications thus all form part of this historical picture. For planning your trip, this offers a distinct focus alongside the museum exhibitions and the burial ground.

Town Hall, Remains of the City Walls and Industrial Heritage

Wolin’s town hall was built in 1881, after the old town hall on the market square had been demolished. The Neo-Gothic brick building also stands out for its tower, which features a coat of arms and a clock face. Here, the city’s history can be read in a building whose period of construction and design are clearly defined.

The city walls date from the 14th and 15th centuries. Only fragments remain, in the northeastern part of the city near Dworku Wolińskim. The Dutch-style windmill is also part of Wolin’s industrial history: it was built on the southwestern outskirts of the city in the second half of the 19th century, has three stories and is 14 meters tall. From the 1950s to the 1970s, it served as an industrial mill.

Another historical memorial is the runestone to the Danish king Harald Bluetooth. He is believed to have ruled over Wolin and founded the fortified camp of Jomsborg, where a group of Vikings was stationed.

The Swing Bridge and Finding Your Way Around Wolin

The swing bridge over the Dziwna connects Wolin Island to the mainland and is one of five swing bridges in operation in Poland. When it opens for shipping, road traffic is stopped.

The granary also stands at the northeastern entrance to the city, on the Dziwna, and has long been a popular motif on postcards depicting Wolin. It helps give a visual sense of the cityscape and complements the striking historic buildings with another recognizable landmark.

Jarmark Wikinga: Demonstrations and Pastries

For three days, Jarmark Wikinga fills Wolińskie Błonia with stalls, tents and a large stage. The program includes demonstrations and concerts. Culinary experiences are also part of the festival: visitors can sample medieval and contemporary pastries. Jarmark thus combines performances with a distinctive taste experience—another way to experience Wolin’s cultural life alongside its museum and archaeological history.

Wolin in the Wider Municipality

For geographical context, it is also worth looking beyond the city: the western part of Wolin Municipality lies within Wolin National Park on Wolin Island.

More pages about nearby places: Łubczewo, Wrzosowo, Wicko, Ładzin, Międzyzdroje, Piaski Wielkie, Rabiąż, Będzieszewo.

For the broader travel overview: Kamień Pomorski.