The Polonia Activities of Stanisław Reszka in Rome in the Light of Letters to Marcin Kromer (1569-1582)

Abstract

In the years 1569-1579, Cardinal Stanisław Hozjusz, Bishop of Warmia, spent the last decade of his life in Rome. In addition to many other activities, he led a lively activity for the benefit of the Polish community in the Eternal City. Stanisław Reszka was his secretary and closest collaborator. In his letters to Marcin Kromer, he reported on the help he provided to his patron in their activities for Poles, especially in establishing and building the Polish hospice and the Church of St. Stanislaus. He described the activities of Poles in Rome. After Hozjusz’s death, Reszka continued to organize activities for the Polish diaspora by establishing the Polish College. In addition, he recommended those traveling to the Polish Commonwealth to seek Kromer, helped settle matters in the Roman Curia, lent money, and was the executor of the wills of Poles who died in the Eternal City.