Merkuriusz Polski Ordynaryjny
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Merkuriusz Polski Ordynaryjny (lit. Polish Ordinary Mercury; Merkuryusz Polski Ordynaryiny in 17th century Polish) was the first Polish newspaper, printed in 1661 in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Although short-lived, it gave name to several later newspapers, notably the Merkuriusz Polski printed in London between 1955 and 1958.
The newspaper was first published in Kraków on January 3, 1661. Inspired by Ludwika Maria Gonzaga and the court of her husband, King John Casimir of Poland, the newspaper was a bi-weekly devoted mostly to contemporary politics, dynastic affairs of Europe and military campaigns of various monarchs. In internal affairs it promoted the political reforms and strengthening the power of the monarch. It was published in 17th century Polish heavy influenced by Latin, though some parts of the text were published in pure Latin. Initially published in Kraków's J.A. Gorczyn's printing house, in May of the same year the editors moved to Warsaw. Merkuryusz was edited by Hieronim Pinocci, an Italian merchant who emigrated to Poland and served at numerous notable posts in the royal administration. Other collaborators included Łukasz Opaliński. Altogether 41 issues were printed, with an average issue of between 100 and 200. The last issue of Merkuryusz was dated July 22, 1661. Between 1933 and 1939 all of the issues were reprinted by the Polish National Library.
