The post-war desire for rest, relaxation, regeneration and convalescence was intended to encompass as many citizens as possible. Initially, however, it seemed like a top-down directive being forcibly implemented, which, amongst proletarian men and women unaccustomed to celebrating their free time, aroused more mistrust than satisfaction. The process of making facilities suitable for sanatorium or spa purposes available took time. This did not encourage the development of a habit of enjoying their charms and amenities.

In his new book *Remontownia ciał i dusz. Holiday Homes and Sanatoriums in the People’s Republic of Poland’, does not limit himself to listing interesting venues or towns where holiday life flourished, and where male and female patients formed new holiday communities. The author draws on memoirs, letters, photographs from personal archives and government records. In doing so, he paints a highly comprehensive picture of the strategy designed to prepare society for a different way of life. He does not, however, overlook the mistakes and inaccuracies that accompanied the implementation of this project. Despite these, the very idea of a universal right to leisure still inspires admiration today. We continue to benefit from its legacy to this day – not least in the form of free Saturdays and long holidays.

In conversation with Aldona Mioduszewska, the author will tell us about his most interesting discoveries, as well as the practices and provisions that could be incorporated into labour law today in a modernised form.

This event is organised in collaboration with the DOMAR Interior Design Gallery, Czarne Publishing House and the Tajne Komplety bookshop.