The National Museum in Szczecin showcases around 180 weapons and military artefacts tracing the history of the former Duchy of Pomerania from the 12th to the 17th century
The National Museum in Szczecin is presenting Weapons in the State of the Griffins, a temporary exhibition showcasing around 180 weapons, pieces of armour and equestrian artefacts from the museum's collections. Running until 15 January 2027, the exhibition follows the military history of the former Duchy of Pomerania from the establishment of the Griffin state in the 12th century to the end of the dynasty in the 1630s.
Presented at the museum's WaΕy Chrobrego building, the exhibition brings together objects used by knights, soldiers and townspeople, illustrating how warfare, craftsmanship and technology evolved over more than five centuries. Many of the exhibits are being displayed together for the first time, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore one of the museum's most important historical collections.
Weapons of the Griffin State
The exhibition presents an extensive collection of edged weapons, including more than thirty medieval swords, alongside daggers, 15th-century rapiers, Renaissance backswords, polearms and maces. Protective armour and riding equipment complete the picture, demonstrating the changing nature of warfare and military craftsmanship throughout the medieval and early modern periods.
Firearms also feature in the exhibition, including a medieval hook gun and a 16th-century cannon recovered from Szczecin Castle, reflecting the gradual transition from traditional weapons to early gunpowder technology.
Rare Objects with Remarkable Histories
Several artefacts stand out for their rarity.
Among them is the oldest crossbow preserved in a Polish museum collection, dating to the early 15th century. Visitors can also see an extensive collection of historic spurs, illustrating how equestrian equipment developed over the centuries.
The exhibition also brings together objects that have rarely been displayed publicly, including fragments of armour recovered from the ducal crypt after the Second World War and decorative coverings from a hunting crossbow discovered during archaeological excavations at Szczecin Castle in 1975.
Together, these artefacts reveal not only military history but also the continuing work of archaeologists and museum specialists in preserving Pomerania's cultural heritage.
More Than a Collection of Weapons
Rather than presenting weapons as isolated objects, the exhibition places them within the wider story of the Griffin dynasty and medieval Pomerania.
Historic illustrations from Pomeranian artworks and German manuscripts help explain how weapons and armour were used, while also exploring their symbolic role in society. This broader context allows visitors to understand the craftsmanship behind each object as well as the historical events that shaped the region.
The exhibition demonstrates how museum collections continue to preserve the stories of the people who forged, carried and used these objects, connecting visitors with a significant chapter in the history of Pomerania.
Visitor Information
Exhibition: Weapons in the State of the Griffins from the Collections of the National Museum in Szczecin
Venue: National Museum in Szczecin, WaΕy Chrobrego 3, Szczecin
Exhibition Dates: Until 15 January 2027
Museum Opening Hours
Tuesday: 10:00 am β 6:00 pm
Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 am β 4:00 pm
Monday: Closed
Admission
Regular: PLN 15
Reduced: PLN 8
Free admission: Thursday (permanent exhibitions; temporary exhibition availability may vary)
Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website before travelling for the latest ticket information and any temporary changes to opening hours.