Interpreting Intangible Cultural Heritage in Museum Practice: Krakow’s Centre as a Model of Educational Innovation
Interpreting Intangible Cultural Heritage in Museum Practice: Krakow’s Centre as a Model of Educational Innovation

Summary/Abstract: This article explores the role of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Interpretation Centre of Krakow (CINDK) as a model institution for the protection, education and dissemination of intangible heritage in Poland. Established as a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow, the Centre reflects contemporary museological trends by adopting participatory, inclusive and interdisciplinary methods. It operates at the intersection of research, education and community engagement, emphasizing the co-creation and living nature of heritage. The article presents the Centre’s key objectives and activities, including its documentation projects, educational programs and cooperation with UNESCO. Special attention is given to flagship initiatives such as the Krakow Nativity Scene and the Lajkonik procession, which are presented as successful cases of safeguarding local traditions within global heritage frameworks. The analysis also identifies challenges – such as folklorisation, generational change, and the need for digital innovation – and discusses how the Centre addresses them through educational outreach and international collaboration. The case of Krakow illustrates how a local institution can function as a laboratory of heritage interpretation, connecting academic knowledge with civic practice and contributing to the broader field of intangible heritage studies.

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