Unbeknownst to many, we owe the watch we wear on our wrists to a treatment for cancer to the accomplished Poles of history. Patek Philippe, the great watchmaker, Marie Curie who discovered Radium and became the first woman to win a nobel prize ever, were just a few of the pioneers that call Poland their homeland. Make your way through the Museum of Polish culture and history to the haunting melodies of Chopin, another talented Polish musician, which play through the speakers.

In the 19th century, the polish museum built an enormous collection, becoming a centre for the Polish diaspora and playing a critical role in Poland regaining its independence. However, during the World War, 95% of the Rapperswil collection was destroyed. The tenacity of the Poles prevailed though, and the collection was rebuilt, now occupying a space in the Castle of Rapperswil. Through art, medals, cartography, sculptures, ethnography and historical mementos, the museum paints the history of Poland. Polish traditions and the story of how Poland came to be the unique nation that it is today are featured in its exhibits, particularly the winning back of its independence in 1989. In the 20,000 volumes accumulated in the comprehensive library, the museum documents every there is to know about the intersection of the Polish and Swiss cultures over the years.