The E.Wedel Chocolate Factory Museum is nestled within the working confines of the original E.Wedel factory in the Polish captal's Praga district.
According to museum curator Marta Marocka, visitors will be able to watch chocolate production through glass partitions separating the museum from the factory lines.
"You will be able to see where cocoa plants grow, how the beans are fermented and dried," Marocka said.
She added: "We need a series of different processes and time to be able to try chocolate in the form of the bars we know. And we want visitors to take part in this process, so for example, some of the machines that are part of the chocolate production process are interactive, and we can operate them to see how to clean the beans, how to grind them."
The museum spans 8,000 square meters across several floors, each offering interactive zones that depict various stages of chocolate production. A virtual guide will accompany visitors through these zones.
The museum promises a hands-on experience, including the chance to taste chocolate treats during tours and to design personalized packaging for Wedel’s famous Ptasie Mleczko soft marshmallow candies.
Marocka highlighted the museum’s broad appeal, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages.
"We can't imagine inviting people to a chocolate factory and not offering them a taste," she said, underscoring the inclusive, educational and sensory-rich environment.
The museum's collection includes rare artifacts such as a 1930s paperweight depicting a "Boy on a Zebra"—a well-known symbol of the company—and a figurine from the same era designed by puppeteer Edward Manitius.
These pieces represent the deep-rooted history of the Wedel brand and its cultural impact in Warsaw.
A 1931 coloring book for children promotes E.Wedel products. Image: Artur Oppman, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
To build on that heritage, the company is reviving a prewar tradition by opening more of its popular chocolate drinking establishments.
Wedel’s commitment to expansion and innovation is evidenced by its recent PLN 200 million (EUR 47 million, USD 52 million) investment project, which includes the museum itself as well as enhancements to the factory's production capabilities.
The new facility features a sixth-floor observation deck offering panoramic views of Warsaw and Lake Kamionkowskie, enriching the visitor experience.
The E.Wedel factory and Warsaw's Lake Kamionkowskie, pictured before World War II. Image: Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The museum’s design and multimedia content were developed by WWAA and Lunapark Motion Arts Collective, with visual identity consulting from Studio Homework and Patryk Hardziej, reflecting modern design interpretations while paying homage to Wedel’s heritage.
E.Wedel has been producing chocolates, cakes and snacks since 1851. The company has a long history of community engagement and social innovation.
For a time a subsidiary of Cadbury, it is now owned by the South Korean confectionery maker Lotte.
Ticket sales for the E.Wedel Chocolate Factory Museum began online in early August and will be available on-site from September 4.
The museum also features a Chocolate Drink Hall and a souvenir shop with exclusive items, ensuring that each visitor leaves with a memorable and sweet souvenir from their visit.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP
