Explore the mysterious death of Jan Kochanowski, a key figure of the Polish Renaissance, and his deep connections to Lublin.
440 years ago, Jan Kochanowski passed away in Lublin
Jan Kochanowski, a celebrated Polish Renaissance poet, passed away 440 years ago in Lublin, likely from a stroke. He first visited Lublin as a 17-year-old, accompanying his mother to reclaim debts. His academic pursuits at Kraków Academy and the University of Padua were followed by ambitions to serve at King Zygmunt II Augustus’ court, leading him to the influential Firlej family.
Kochanowski’s death in 1584 remains shrouded in mystery. He likely suffered a stroke in Lublin after learning of the Senate’s delayed investigation into his brother-in-law’s death. While long thought to have died in the Crown Tribunal chamber, newer evidence suggests he may have passed away in his friend’s nearby home. His initial burial in Lublin was attended by King Stefan Batory, but questions linger about the exact timeline and location of his final resting place.