Profesor Rudolf Jamka we Wrocławiu

The activities of Professor Rudolf Jamka in Wrocław in the years 1935–1950 played a key role in the development of Silesian archaeology, especially immediately after World War II. The authors examine Jamka’s two pre-war research visits to German Wrocław, documenting his engagement with local archaeological institutions and fieldwork. Particular attention is given to the post-war period, when Jamka – serving as director of the State Museum of Prehistory and head of the Department of Prehistory at the University of Wrocław – was influential in building of Polish archaeology in Lower Silesia. His efforts led to the recovery of dispersed archaeological collections, the establishment of a new museum, and the initiation of systematic excavations. The article sheds light on the organisational and material challenges faced by the pioneers of archaeology in war-torn Wrocław, while emphasizing Jamka’s contribution to the preservation of the region’s cultural heritage. It offers a valuable contribution to the history of Polish archaeology, documenting not only biographical details but also the institutional foundations of museum and academic archaeology in Wrocław.