RW Stories in Development

Elżbieta Heweliusz

The Remarkable Woman Behind Astronomer Jan Heweliusz

Our Polish story is about Elżbieta Heweliusz, a beautiful and well-educated daughter of a wealthy merchant from Gdańsk, who was married at the age of sixteen to the astronomer Jan Heweliusz. Her husband, who was many years older, lived in a luxurious home visited by kings and powerful lords, artists and scholars from all over Europe. Although he married Elżbieta, he remained attached to his mistress. This unhappy marriage may have destroyed the young woman’s hope for true love, but it did provide her entrance to the world of science dominated by men. Elżbieta Katarzyna Heweliusz was recognized as the first female astronomer by the King of Poland, Jan III Sobieski. In fact, he provided funds to continue the research interrupted by her husband's death.

  • Edyta Kwiatek

    AUDIOVISUAL PRODUCER AND LOCATION MANAGER
    Edyta Kwiatek is a graduate of the Institute of Audiovisual Arts of the Jagiellonian University and Film and TV Studies, Westminster University in London. She gained experience in audiovisual production at home and abroad, creating music, television and film projects, beginning her career as a production assistant. She is the founder of FILMES, an audiovisual production house focused on promoting activities related to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions in the audiovisual industry as part of the Green Filming project. FILMES produces a variety of projects with a fresh approach to new media. The company is devoted to promoting young artists and visionaries and is committed to supporting creative projects about culture, history, art and film, both in Poland and abroad.