To mark the 550th anniversary of the birth of Nicolaus Copernicus, which is being celebrated this year, the University of Warmia and Mazury (UWM) in Olsztyn has changed the appearance of one of its dormitories in Kortów. A mural dedicated to Poland’s greatest astronomer has been painted on the wall of the student residence.

UWM considers itself an heir to the ideas espoused by Nicolaus Copernicus. This is reflected, for example, in the reference to the great astronomer in the text of the oath taken by students joining the academic community. 

Copernicus, for many years associated with Olsztyn and the region, is to be a model of perseverance in acquiring knowledge and skills. From now on, students will also be reminded of this by a mural which has appeared in the centre of Kortów, depicting the most popular Polish astronomer as a student at UWM.

The slogan “If Kopernik studied in Kortów today…” is intended to stimulate the imagination of the potential viewer”, says Małgorzata Śpiewak, author of the project.