From Ashtarak to Łódź: A Memorable Journey to Poland

On September 21, 2023, the Independence Day of Armenia, a new and significant chapter began in my life. That day, It was my first time visiting the beloved land of Poland, heading towards the magnificent city of Łódź.

Before departing, of course, I tried to find online interesting and necessary information about the city. But as the famous proverb says: “It is better to see once than to hear a thousand times.” Personal experience is truly invaluable; no description or photograph can convey the feelings one experiences when personally being there. Our team of six found ourselves in an astonishingly pleasant atmosphere in the city. For all of us, Łódź was a revelation—even for our two friends who were visiting Poland for the second time. During the days we were in Łódź, the weather was pleasantly warm and sunny, which added extra joy to our explorations. 

Among the most impressive parts of the city for me was the Centralne Muzeum Włókiennictwa (Central Museum of Textiles). It’s quite an interesting place for several reasons. First, the museum excellently presents Łódź’s industrial past as a crucial center for textile production. There, one can not only see old machinery and manufacturing processes but also understand how textile production shaped the city’s identity and the lives of its inhabitants. Second, the museum serves as a vivid example of cultural heritage preservation and presentation, demonstrating how old industries have been transformed into contemporary art and history. 

Another remarkable place we visited was the city’s Zoo Garden, which is a true paradise for nature lovers. There you can see numerous interesting and beautiful animals, from exotic birds to gigantic predators. For instance, I vividly remember the amusing kangaroos, elephants, and more. The garden is quite large, and rest assured, two hours will not be enough to fully explore and enjoy the diversity of the animal world. It is a wonderful place for relaxation and family strolls. 

Łódź’s architecture also deserves special attention. Some of the city’s buildings are adorned with intriguing paintings, known as street art. These beautiful murals and graffiti breathe life into the city’s old buildings and create a unique atmosphere.

We also visited the Muzeum Kinematografii (Museum of Cinematography), which was equally useful, interesting, and a valuable discovery. There, one can learn about the history of Polish cinema, see old equipment, and feel the spirit of the magical world of film. A surprising fact: the museum was founded in 1976 as a department of film and theater culture within the Łódź City Museum, and since 1986 it has operated as an independent institution. The second surprising fact is that it is the only major cinema museum in all of Poland exclusively dedicated to film, cinematography, technology, and the art of cinema.

More info here: Museum der Kinematographie in Łódź – Wikipedia

A special place in my memories is held by the Light Move Festival, which was truly an unforgettable spectacle. The entire city was transformed into a vibrant, captivating light show. Buildings, streets, and squares seemed to be covered in beautiful images, cinematographic scenes, and colorful projections. During those days, Łódź became a magical kingdom of light and art.

The Light Move Festival, which typically takes place transforms Łódź’s central streets and historic buildings into colossal canvases where astonishing light and visual shows are projected. Each corner reveals a new work of art, ranging from interactive installations to dynamic stories displayed on building facades. Since its inception in 2011, the festival has grown to unite hundreds of thousands of people who stroll through the city’s illuminated streets, enjoying this unique atmosphere and unforgettable moments. It not only beautifies the city but also creates a magical sensation where past and future meet under the glow of light. The Light Move Festival truly demonstrates how art and technology can transform urban space and emotionally connect people, making it a highlight of Łódź’s cultural calendar.

The city of Łódź fascinates with its diversity and unexpected charm. It combines its industrial past with contemporary art and a lively pace of life. Every street can reveal its unique story, from old factories to stylish cafes. The city’s green spaces offer wonderful places for relaxation, and its cultural life is constantly evolving.

Łódź is truly one of those cities where I would gladly return.

Written by Nvard Botsinyan