We present a publication that brings together all the information needed by anyone interested in learning about cemetery secrets. The book not only contains information on what an inventory of necropolises and gravestones consists of, but also how to measure them, how to recognise the material they are made of and how to prepare documentation for such works.

The publication contains systematised and indispensable knowledge of art history and material science. It also presents the correct tools useful in inventory and documentation work in cemeteries. In addition, many specially prepared photographs and drawings illustrate selected examples of objects.

The book is a compendium of basic knowledge for volunteers, students and all those interested in work on the preservation of Polish cemeteries which found themselves outside Poland after 1945.

Excerpt from the foreword by Director Dorota Janiszewska-Jakubiak

We will not be able to protect all the graves and necropolises outside the country from destruction or liquidation, but through documentation we can save the memory of the former inhabitants of the eastern territories, as well as of the Poles who decided, or were forced, to emigrate. There is a need to realise the importance and urgency of systematic action involving research of sources, inventory work, photographic documentation and publications. Fieldwork is the basis of these activities, and their results can be the starting point for further investigations.

It is worthwhile for the eyewitness examination and description of sepulchral objects to be carried out in a standardised manner, using guidelines developed by specialists. The standardisation of inventory cards will facilitate the creation of databases and, in the future, a repository of documents prepared for sharing. The "Handbook for the Inventory of Polish Cemeteries and Tombstones Abroad", published by the POLONIKA Institute, will help to develop the substantive competencies of people who, because of their research interests or simply because of the need of their hearts or a desire to learn about the history of their ancestors and the history of the Republic of Poland, support projects and actions aimed at the preservation of old cemeteries.

We invite institutions and organisations that support public involvement in the protection of tangible Polish cultural heritage remaining abroad to contact us. For these centres the publication can be made available free of charge. In this matter, please contact us by e-mail at: mgutowska@polonika.pl.

The Ukrainian version of the handbook is available.

Authors: Anna Sylwia Czyż, Bartłomiej Gutowski

Edited by: Zofia Jurkowlaniec

Year of publication: 2020 (1st ed.); 2022 (2nd ed.)

Number of pages: 211 (1st ed.); 216 (2nd ed. Supplementary ed.)

Cover: Softbound

ISBN: 978-83-66172-30-2 (1st ed.); 978-83-66172-39-5 (2nd ed.)