Museum of Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka

Visiting the museum, you will understand how this industry contributed to the development of the region and what innovative technologies were used in the past. You will see authentic tools, machines, and equipment used in the extraction process, as well as learn about important discoveries and achievements of the oil industry. 

The museum also offers interactive exhibitions, workshops, and lectures that are attractive for both adults and children. If you are a fan of history, technology, and the oil industry – the Low Beskids, and in it Bóbrka, must be on your “must visit” list. By visiting the Museum of the Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka, you will find yourself in the cradle of global oilmanship.

THE HISTORY OF THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY IN BÓBRKA

Bóbrka is a well-known center of the oil industry in Poland. The history of this region is deeply connected with the exploitation of oil and gas, which played a key role in the development of the local economy. Already in the mid-19th century, industrial extraction of oil began in the Low Beskids. Thus, the world's first oil company and the mine in Bóbrka, which today is the oldest of its kind in the world, initiated their operations.

The oil mine in Bóbrka was founded in 1854. To this day, there stands an obelisk commemorating this event, erected in 1872 by Ignacy Łukasiewicz. During the first two decades of the mine's operation, several hundred shafts were created, which were originally drilled by hand. Some of them reached depths of even 150 m. Two such shafts – "Franek" and "Janina" are still in operation today.

For many years, Bóbrka was one of the most important centers of the oil industry in Polish lands and Europe. Many innovative technologies and exploitation methods were developed right here. Oil extraction in Bóbrka was carried out using special tools and machines, which were very modern for their time. Many of these devices are today displayed in the Museum of the Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka, where we can see them with our own eyes.

The Museum of the Oil and Gas Industry – one of the most important attractions of the Low Beskids – was opened to the public in 1972. It is the only museum in Europe operating on the site of an oil mine that is still active today. It documents the development of the oil industry and the achievements of Polish oilmen.

EXHIBITS AND COLLECTIONS IN THE MUSEUM

The Museum of the Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka has rich collections related to the oil industry. Here, we can see authentic tools, machines, and equipment used in the process of extracting oil and natural gas. Among the exhibits, there are old drilling rigs, pumps, and even models of historical drilling platforms. Each of these exhibits has its own history and is a testament to the development of oil and gas extraction technologies in the Low Beskids.

Additionally, the museum also has a collection of documents, photographs, and other materials related to the oil industry. This is a valuable source of information for researchers and those interested in the history of this industry. Thanks to these exhibits, we can better understand how the oil industry influenced the development of the region and the challenges faced by its workers.

INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES AND ATTRACTIONS FOR VISITORS

The Museum of the Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka also offers interactive experiences – from learning about the tools and machines used in the oil industry to educational workshops where you can learn drilling technologies or conduct interesting chemical experiments. The diverse educational proposals, aimed at both younger and older lovers of science, make a visit to the museum an inspiration to discover the curiosities and attractions of the Low Beskids.

GUIDED TOURS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

The Museum of the Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka also offers guided tours. Additionally, the museum organizes various educational programs, such as history lessons, workshops, and lectures, which allow for a deeper understanding of the oil and gas industry. It is an ideal offer for students, allowing them to expand their knowledge and skills.

A visit to the Museum of the Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka is also a great opportunity for learning and fun for the whole family during a stay in the Low Beskids.

The Museum of the Oil and Gas Industry in Bóbrka is not only a valuable lesson in history and technology but also an inspiring place where the history of the oil industry is still alive, attracting lovers of science, technology, and all those who want to discover one of the most interesting attractions of the Low Beskids.

SEE - VISITING THE MUSEUM OF THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

SEE - FOLLOWING THE TRAILS OF OIL PIONEERS

WORTH SEEING IN THE VICINITY OF THE MUSEUM OF THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY NAMED AFTER IGNACY ŁUKASIEWICZ IN BÓBRKA:

• Granary from mid-19th century, and relics of 19th century park in Chorkówka
• Manor house of the Sulimirski family in Kobylany
• Church of St. Stanislaus the Bishop and Martyr, from 1878, in Zręcin
• Parish Church in Bóbrka with interesting stained glass windows funded by oilmen
• Roman Catholic cemetery from the mid-1800s, with a chapel from the late 19th century in Bóbrka
• The Glass Heritage Center in Krosno
• Historical Museum in Dukla
• Maria Konopnicka Museum in Żarnowiec
• Carpathian Troy Open-Air Archaeological Museum in Trzcinica

Photo: Krzysztof Zajączkowski