Academy of Fine Arts

Today’s Academy began with the Chairs of Drawing, Painting, and Sculpture that were separated from the Faculty of Philosophy of the Jagiellonian University in 1818-1819. Having become an independent seat of education in 1873, it operated as the School of Fine Arts, and had Jan Matejko – who today is its patron – as its director. It was thanks to his efforts that a new seat was built in the district of Kleparz, on the corner of the future Basztowa Street and Matejki Square.

The new building, which brings to mind the best examples of Italian Renaissance, was completed in 1879. The architect, who created this consummate design was the then Director for City Construction, Maciej Moraczewski.

A substantial role in the history of the school was played by one of Matejko’s followers and another eminent painter, Julian Fałat, who was recognised as a perfect organiser. His achievements include the decision to award the school the status of a university and its elevation to the rank of an academy in 1900.

The second seat of the Academy of Fine Arts in Kraków was built to the design of Tadeusz Stryjeński and Józef Czajkowski at ul. Smoleńsk 9, in 1908-1914. The building is one of the most eminent examples of the early Kraków modernism, embellished with decorations that make reference to Art Noveau, which were already fading away at that time.

Today, the six faculties of the Academy provide education for over 900 students.