Ruda Śląska's permanent Time is Money exhibition tells the city's story through the changing fortunes of its economy, from the Middle Ages to today.
The story of Ruda Śląska is inseparable from industry, mining and economic change. At the Maksymilian Chrobok City Museum, the permanent exhibition Time is Money. History of Civilisation and Economy on the Example of Ruda Śląska invites visitors to discover how those forces transformed a collection of medieval settlements into one of Upper Silesia's most significant industrial centres.
Spread across two floors and eight themed galleries, the exhibition combines historical artefacts with multimedia displays and interactive experiences to present the city's development from the Middle Ages to the present day. Rather than simply documenting local history, it examines how economic ideas, entrepreneurship and technological progress have influenced everyday life over the centuries.
A Different Way to Tell the City's Story
Instead of following a traditional chronological museum format, Time is Money approaches the history of Ruda Śląska through the lens of civilisation and economic development. Visitors follow the city's evolution from its medieval origins, through the Industrial Revolution, and into the modern era.
The exhibition explores fundamental economic concepts alongside the region's history, helping visitors understand how trade, industry and innovation have shaped both local communities and wider society. This broader perspective makes the exhibition accessible to visitors with an interest in history, economics or the cultural heritage of Upper Silesia.
Historic Artefacts Meet Interactive Learning
One of the exhibition's strengths is the balance between authentic historical objects and modern interpretation.
Among the highlights are archaeological discoveries from the Kochłowice settlement, alongside minerals, mining stone, historical tools, banners, sculptures, postcards, paintings and photographs documenting the city's past.
Rather than relying solely on digital displays, the multimedia elements are designed to support the original objects by providing additional explanation and historical context. Interactive games, quizzes and educational activities encourage visitors to engage with economic concepts through practical experiences, following the principle of learning through play.
This approach makes the exhibition suitable for visitors of different ages and backgrounds while adding depth to the historical displays.
Designed for Families, Schools and Individual Visitors
The exhibition has been created with a broad audience in mind.
Families can explore the interactive features together, while organised school and preschool groups can use the displays as a complement to classroom learning. Individual visitors also benefit from the combination of historical interpretation and hands-on activities, allowing them to explore the subject at their own pace.
By presenting complex economic ideas through accessible exhibits and interactive experiences, the museum creates opportunities for learning that extend beyond traditional history displays.
Preserving the Story of an Industrial City
Ruda Śląska has long played an important role in the industrial development of Upper Silesia. Mining, manufacturing and commerce have all contributed to the city's identity, and the permanent exhibition reflects this legacy through both its collections and its interpretation.
By connecting economic history with local heritage, Time is Money offers visitors a deeper understanding of how industry has influenced not only the city's landscape but also the lives of the people who have lived and worked there across generations.
Visitor Information
Venue: Maksymilian Chrobok City Museum, Wolności 26, Ruda Śląska
Opening Hours
Tuesday: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Thursday: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm (free admission)
Monday: Closed
Admission
Standard: PLN 12
Reduced: PLN 8
Family: PLN 25
Sunday: Free entry
By bringing together local history, original artefacts and interactive displays, Time is Money offers a fresh perspective on how economic change has shaped Ruda Śląska. Whether you're discovering the city for the first time or exploring its industrial heritage in greater depth, the exhibition provides an engaging journey through the people, ideas and industries that continue to define it.