The project is co-funded by the Regional Operational Programme of Lesser Poland for the years 2014 – 2020. The support of small and medium-sized enterprises which operate in tourism and increasing the recognisability of Lesser Poland as a tourist economic brand.
The project ‘The support of small and medium-sized enterprises which operate in tourism and increasing the recognisability of Lesser Poland as a tourist economic brand’ (no RPMP.03.03.01-12-0593/18) cofunded by the European Union as a part of the Regional Operational Programme of Lesser Poland for the years 2014 – 2020.
The Foundation for the Development of Regions www.f-rr.org
Realization: Digital Places Multimedia Publishing www.digitalplaces.pl
Kraszewskiego 1/406
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Art Manager: Konrad Rogoziński
Text: Maria Kościelniak
Translation: Ewelina Natanek-Rogozińska
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Apart from:
The Association of Polish Spa Communities www.sgurp.pl
P 3 photos no 2 i 3; p 4 photo no 1 © Maciej Zwierz; p 17 photos no 2 i 3 © Piotr Gaborek; p 17 photo no 1; p 20 © Arch. UM Uście Gorlickie; p 21 Czesława Siuta; p 23 photo no 1 i 2; p 24 photo no 1; p 26-27 photo no 3 i 4 © Emilia Buczek; p 23 photo no 3 i 4 © Marcelina Kubiak; p 25 photo no 2 i 3 © Arch. Chata pod Pustą; p 26 photo no 1 i 2 © Arch. Hotel Piwniczna Spa&Conference; p 28 © Wiktor Baron; p 29 photo no 2, p 33 © Arch. Miejski Ośrodek Kultury w Szczawnicy; p 45 © Piotr Kuczaj; p 47; p 48; p 49 photo no 1, 2; p 4 photo no 1, 2, 3; p 51 photo no 1, 2, 3; p 52-53 photo no 2, 3, 4 © Arch. UG Czarny Dunajec; p 49 photo no 3 © Leszek Drozd; p 52 photo no 1 © Piotr Duraj; P 35 photo no 1; P 36 Galeria Sztuki Polskiej XIX w., Dom Józefa Mehoffera © Pracownia fotograficzna MNK; p 36 Podziemia Rynku, Pałac Krzysztofory © Tomasz Kalarus; p 37 Dom Jana Matejki © Mateusz Szczypiński; p 37 MOCAK © R. Sosin; p 37 Muzeum Archeologiczne © MAK; p 38 Narodowy Stary Teatr © Ryszard Kornecki p 38 Teatr Współczesny © Arch. Teatr Współczesny; p 38
Teatr Groteska © Archiwum Teatru Groteska; p 38 STU © Paweł Nowosławski; p 38 Teatr Bagatela © Dariusz Baran; p 38
Teatr BARAKAH © Iwona Bandzarewicz; p 38 Opera Krakowska © Wiktor Siwanowicz; p 38 Filharmonia Krakowska © W. Plewiński p 41 © Firma Kunszt; p 42 photo no 1 © Katarzyna Pracuch; p 42 photo no 2 i 3 © Adobe Stock; p 43 © Joanna Gałuszka; p 44 © Joanna Dragon; p 50 photo no 1 © Łukasz Świętach
The spas of Lesser Poland can boast of numerous treasures. Obviously, healing waters – mineral, geothermal, sulphide or brine – which allow them to function as spas, constitute the greatest of them. Surrounding nature and a geographical location are not without significance – the resorts of Lesser Poland are situated in the valleys or in the mountains from which beautiful views spread. Historic sites and cultural life inside them are another valuable asset! There is no spa commune which would not have a long history, rich heritage and living traditions. On the basis of cultural heritage, numerous cultural attractions and cyclical events are created. The communes also have a lot of places where modern art flourishes. Next to museums with historic exhibits, we will find galleries of modern art. Next to old theatres, there are small stages in cafes. Highlander music plays in the mountains and children dance breakdance!
Cracow – the capital of Lesser Poland and the city of culture – can boast of the biggest number of attractions connected with culture. In the city we can have a weekend full of art, theatre and music. Rabka is a place where attractions and festivals for children take the lead. Czarny Dunajec equals the culture of Podhale Highlanders and highlander feast. We visit Szczawnica to watch Redyk i.e. the trailing of sheep, and take part in amazing concerts. Piwniczna-Zdrój is home to Black Highlanders. Krynica-Zrój is a resort of long traditions with festivals and spa concerts. Uście Gorlickie offers the colourful world of Lemko people. And Muszyna? In Muszyna music can be heard everywhere – in small cafes, in the morning, in the evening and art blooms in the gardens!
The route of the trip
Muszyna Commune is located in the south of Poland in Lesser Poland in the area of the Beskid Sądecki and the Poprad Foothills at a height of 450 m. The town and the surrounding villages are situated in the picturesque valley of the Poprad River. Geographically, it seems to be the end of the world, but it develops at such a pace that it definitely is one of the most interesting spas! Annually new attractions and infrastructure which are created on the basis of rich history, architecture and the picturesque location appear.
This commune is just ideal for ‘a weekend with culture’. After all, poets including Harasymowicz fell in love with
the place and called it ‘the Land of Gentleness’ and ‘a delightful town in the Carpathians’. Kochanowski wrote epigrams about the starosts of Muszyna and Stare Dobre Małżeństwo sang about Leluchów, a village at the end of the world where Jan Matejko used to come. The commune inspires! The culture of Wallachians and Lemkos, who left behind valuable wooden architecture, had been flourishing there for years. Today gardens bloom there, we can see natural works of art, cafes and restaurants appear where music is played, festivals and concerts are organised and local artists perform. Muszyna delights culturally!
The Manor of Starosts is a part of the Park of Culture and Former Crafts which also includes a guardhouse and a roadhouse (the Regional Museum of the Muszyna State). The manor – a classical building from the turn of the 19th century – is the seat of the Centre of Culture. Inside there is a concert venue, artistic workshops and a cafe where we can have a cup of coffee or listen to a concert.
The Music Pavilion is a cafe with a view of Muszyna located at the top of the Sensory Gardens, right next to a panoramic tower. We can have aromatic coffee, cakes or ice-cream desserts and enjoy music concerts which are organised in the place quite often.
The cafe in the Town Hall is another place where we can listen to music or watch exhibitions. The Town Hall located in the Square was constructed in the years 2019 – 2021. It is one of the newest attractions of Muszyna. Its style refers to town halls of the 19th century which have been preserved in small towns. Inside, we will find the Centre of Tourist Information and the Mineral Water Pump Room.
KawiarniaDworStarostow Pawilon Muzyczny
In summertime, at chosen weekends and on holidays small concerts are organised in cafes of Muszyna. Music mornings are meetings organised in the venue in the Manor of the Starosts, the cafe in the Town Hall and the Sensory Gardens in summer. The concerts take place on chosen Saturdays and Sundays all year round and especially during summer and winter holidays. Afternoons with a Cup of Coffee are afternoon concerts which take place on chosen Saturdays, Sundays and holidays in the garden cafe or the venue in the Manor of Starosts, in the cafe in the Town Hall and the Music Pavilion. The Music Pavilion holds Music Evenings as well.
The cellars under the Town Hall in the Square are a few hundred years old. We can see there an exhibition which presents how wine and goods transported by the trade route from Hungary were stored. There is a reconstruction of the prison across which archeologists came a few years ago and a torture chamber presenting instruments of torture, a witch and a brigand.
The gardens of Muszyna are a great decoration of the place despite the fact that their purpose was strictly educational or therapeutic. Walking along the alleys we can admire true works of arts – flower compositions, sculptures and artistic installations. The Zone of the Sight in the Sensory Gardens presents floral carpets which integrate ideally into the landscape of the Beskid Sądecki. The area of Fairy
Tales and Legends displays the legends of Muszyna. In the Magic Gardens we will see the sandstone sculptures of muses, Greek gods and seasons. In the Biblical Gardens we will be able to admire compositions of flowers from the Bible and the Middle East. The architectural installations which display the scenes from the Old and New Testament complement the landscape of Muszyna.
The Regional Museum of the Muszyna State is a local museum where we can see exhibits and memorabilia of the long history of the town. Moreover, there are also exhibits connected with the culture and traditions of the region.
The House of Crafts is a place where we may get acquainted with the crafts of former inhabitants of Muszyna and try our hand at pottery.
mgok.muszyna.pl/Dom_Rzemiosła
Orthodox churches are among places presenting exceptional art. There are nine wooden Orthodox churches in Muszyna Commune which are sites of the Wooden Architecture Route and one which is made of brick. Each of them shows examples of the art of Orthodox churches
which date back to various periods such as iconostases with incredible icons or polychromies. The most beautiful interiors are to be found in Powroźnik, in the Orthodox Church of St James the Younger which was listed as a UNESCO site.
The information about current events can be found at:
mgok.muszyna.pl
The official website of Muszyna Commune
‘Klucz Muszyński’ Association in Muszyna
muszyna.pl kluczmuszynski
July is a time of Galician Jazz Meetings and the Festival of Children of Mountains co-organised with the Centre of Culture in Nowy Sącz.
August is a time when the biggest event of summer takes place – the Festival of Mineral Waters. It is a series of artistic performances and concerts of popular music.
NOVEMBER
October and November are months of nostalgia and Zaduszki Jazzowe (Jazz Souls ‘ Day) takes place.
Krynica Commune is located at the foot of Jaworzyna Krynicka, in a place where the Beskid Sądecki meets the Low Beskids. Krynica-Zdrój – one of the most popular resorts of Poland – is its heart. Tourists and health visitors go there to take advantage of healing mineral waters, hiking trails, ski stations and numerous cultural or sports events. The spa is surrounded by smaller villages situated in former Lemko Land scattered on the slopes of the Beskids and in the valleys.
The spa is definitely the best place to search for cultural events as the greatest Polish artists such as Modrzejewska,
Tuwim, Asnyk or Sienkiewicz used to visit it. There, in the streets, on stage and on hotel balconies Jan Kiepura would sing. There, Nikifor, a local, primitive artist wellknown around the world, sitting on a wall by the Spa House, painted portraits of visitors and villas of Krynica. The town is full of places and events which will satisfy your appetite! Festivals, events, exhibitions are organised there. You will find interesting museums, amazing architecture – buildings in the spa, Swiss and Lemko style. We are able to admire local art and artists of worldwide renown in the surroundings of magnificent nature.
The Main Mineral Water Pump Room is the most significant place of the spa. This modernist building dates back to the second half of the 20th century but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 21st century. When Krynica became a spa, mineral water pump rooms were places of meetings. At present, the most interesting events, concerts and exhibitions are held there including the New Year’s Concert or concerts organised as a part of the Festival of Jan Kiepura.
The Bandshell
The Bandshell situated at Deptak is one of the historic sites of the spa – a representative stage of the Spa Orchestra where concerts are held until today.
The Old Spa House is the most beautiful building at Deptak in Krynica. It was designed in the neo-Renaissance style by architects who had been trained in Vienna. It resembles a magnificent palace. Inside there is a ballroom where nowadays concerts are held.
KawiarniaPrezydecka
The Centre of Culture in Krynica-Zdrój functions in the form of a cultural centre, a cinema, an orchestra, an art school and a gallery. Its seat is located in the ‘Siedlisko’ building in Krynica-Zdrój (19 Piłsudski Street). A lot of events organised by the centre are held in the Old Spa House and cultural centres in Tylicz and Muszynka. The centre organises classes for children and adults and numerous cultural events.
ckkrynica.pl
The tradition of dances in Krynica dates back to the 20’s of the 20th century. Health visitors came to Krynica in order to regain health and after their treatments they looked for a chance to have fun. People danced to live music and it was a great chance to meet new people. During the interwar period dances were organised in Chorążówka Restaurant and in the restaurant on Parkowa Mountain. Famous Hawana was the place in the 70’s where Pudelsi used to perform. We can have fun there until now. It is also a good idea to go dancing in the Old Spa house, Artystyczna Restaurant or CristalPatio Restaurant.
Cristalpatio Restaurant
the Old Spa House
Attractions connected with music really stand out in Krynica-Zdrój. You can go there to take part in great music festivals full of classical music and opera songs or listen to regional music full highlander, Lemko or even foreign notes.
Hyrni Band provides lively and cheerful meetings with regional music. They are a band of young and talented artists who draw their inspiration from local traditions. Kuba, the leader, is a person whose soul has been playing music since his youngest years. He particularly likes keyboard instruments and most frequently plays the accordion! Sandra sings with Eliza who also plays the violin. Bartłomiej plays the double bass and Mateusz plays the cajon (a wooden, box-shaped percussion instrument). The band will play regional music – the one which is perfect for dancing. During their performances, we can also
listen to popular songs in their interpretation and folk songs including Lemko ones. We can meet the band at regional events in Cichy Kącik in Krynica-Zdrój – a regional restaurant with an exceptional climate where feasts with dancing are organised! Fire on stage is guaranteed! The band performs in other restaurants and on stage in Krynica or Muszyna. They eagerly cooperate with hotels, restaurants or inns during various concerts, wedding receptions and other events.
If music is not enough for you, Kuba will take you for a trip as, apart from playing in the band, he is a tour leader. He especially likes Hungary but he knows other parts of Europe and Poland well. A trip with a musician will be an unforgettable adventure!
E-mail: kubakapela@op.pl
Phone: 798 109 255
kapelaHYRNI
The Museum of Nikifor Krynicki is located in ‘Romanówka’ – a wooden villa by Dietl’s Boulevards. The works of Nikifor – a primitive artist from Krynica – are displayed inside. We will see there portraits, paintings of buildings, self-portraits and also tools which were used by the artist and his possessions.
muzeum.sacz.pl
The Museum of Toys presents toys from different periods – from the Ancient Times to the 80’s of the 20th century. It is an amazing place either for children or adults.
muzeum-zabawek.pl/krynica-zdrój
The Museum of Tylicz – a regional museum which displays exhibits connected with the history and traditions of the place, former crafts or historic skates and skis.
odkryjtylicz.pl/muzeum
Winter is time for the New Year’s Concert performed by the Spa Orchestra and the concert of Christmas carols. The Carnival abounds in numerous dancing events or sleigh rides with feasts.
From January to February there is a series of concerts – Krynica as the Spring of Culture. Then, the greatest stars of Polish music (blues, pop, alternative) perform on stage of the Main Mineral Water Pump Room.
pijalniaglowna.pl
Concerts at the Panoramic interesting proposition. The information on the
Panoramic Tower in Słotwiny in summer are also an proposition. Stars perform on stage surrounded by a forest. the event can be found on the website of the tower
At the beginning of September a sports event takes place – the Running Festival
The most popular event which takes place in Krynica-Zdrój is the Festival of Jan Kiepura which is always organised in the middle of August. This is a feast of opera, operetta and classical music organised in honour of a great tenor and actor, Jan Kiepura, who achieved enormous popularity and came to love Krynica-Zdrój. During the festival the greatest pieces of opera and operetta music are played, opera and operetta performances are staged and chamber music sounds. The first festival was held one year after Kiepura had passed away in 1967 and concerts took place at Deptak and the Theatre Room of the Old Spa House. International singers performed. The festival invites the greatest artists and concerts take place also in the Main Mineral Water Pump Room.
In August the Festival of Children of the Mountains organised by the Centre of Culture in Nowy Sącz takes place too – children’s folk bands from all over the world are invited.
Uście Gorlickie Commune is located in the area of the Low Beskids, in the south-east part of Lesser Poland. The Low Beskids is one of the lowest massifs in the Carpathians. Although the peaks do not rise over the height of 1,000 m and are wooded, the trails are beautiful and very often demanding – they are ideal for those who seek tranquillity and a contact with nature. People inhabiting the commune lead their lives in the valleys. The seat of the commune, Uście Gorlickie, is located by the Ropa River. Wysowa-Zdrój, which is famous for its mineral waters, is located right by the border with Slovakia.
The area of the Low Beskids used to be dwelled in by Lemko people. Despite the fact that they suffered a terrible
fate – they were resettled after the Second World War – the commune is still known for its multiculturalism, Lemko traditions are still living and we can see them in the local cuisine, crafts, music or traditions. Even though the villages are deserted, their former inhabitants sometimes come back. Annual Watra (Watchfire) in Zdynia gathers Lemko people from the whole world and gives a unique chance to experience the richness of their folklore. In Orthodox churches – especially the ones which are UNESCO sites, guides tell visitors about the art and faith of people who have been praying there for ages. It would seem that the commune is peaceful, abandoned but actually it is a place in which we can find out about both distant history and living culture.
The Spa Park is an area for visitors where numerous events are organised. There is the Mineral Water Pump Room –its building beautifully integrated into the landscape is a reconstruction of a former one. In May the Festival of Brass Orchestras ‘The Echo of the Trembita’ and May picnic
take place there. August is the time of ‘Villages Smelling of Herbs in Lesser Poland’ and ‘the Feast of Red Pine Mushroom’ is organised in September. In summer we can participate in a series of concerts called 'Summer Music’.
The time of the First and the Second World War was very difficult for the Low Beskids. During the First World War the front ran across this area. Russians wanted to cross the Carpathians. In 1915 one of the greatest battles took place there – Gorlice-Tarnów Offensive – during which the Austro-Hungarian army broke through the Russian front. The battle was bloody – the forests of the commune hide
numerous graves of the soldiers who fought on both sides. After the war, the graves were organised into cemeteries. One of the most beautiful ones is located on Rotunda (771 m). Its creative manager was Dušan Jurkovič – a Slovak architect. He created a cemetery in a proto slavic style using wood as the base material.
The Museum of Horse Riding functions by the centre and the stable ‘Stara Cegielnia’ (‘the Old Brickyard’). The place displays a collection of approximately 40 saddles from different parts of the world including historical and army ones – the collection has been gathered by the owners of the place who are great enthusiasts of horse riding. Moreover, we will see stirrups, bits, cold steel weapons and historical uniforms.
Address: Gładyszów 70, Uście Gorlickie
E-mail: tkario@wp.pl
Phone: 503 068 055, 502 677 460
kario.com.pl
Ośrodek „Stara Cegielnia” GładyszówWooden churches are an inseparable element of the commune and one of its greatest treasures. Temples are beautifully integrated into the landscape. They are delightful outside and inside we can find pearls of Orthodox art. We can admire magnificent icons written by local artists or the ones brought from distant places, iconostases which
tell us so much about the faith of Lemko people or polychromies. The majority of the churches are listed as the Wooden Architecture Route sites. The real pearls can be found in Kwiatoń or Brunary which in 2013 were listed as UNESCO sites.
Music enchanted in wood
Music enchanted in wood is a series of concerts which take place at summer weekends in various sites of the Wooden Architecture Route. The programme is always diverse – early and classical music prevail but more and more often we can listen to modern one as well. Concerts are accompanied by dance shows and mystery plays. Music in such interiors sounds extraordinarily.
drewniana.malopolska.pl
Art hidden in wood
the Echo of the Trembita
the Feast of the Red Pine Mushroom
The most interesting cultural events in the commune take place in summer and autumn. Lemko Watra is held in Zdynia in July – it is a feast of Lemko culture which is organised by a Lemko organisation, Zjednoczenie Łemków (Lemko Association), in a building specially erected to hold this event. Initially, Watra was an informal meeting of Lemkos but with time it gained popularity and now it is an international festival. During three days the heritage of Lemko culture is presented and performances of folk and modern bands take place. There are workshops, exhibitions and stalls with Lemko handicraft and literature. It is a great chance to meet former inhabitants of the commune and a chance for Lemko people to integrate.
watrazdynia.pl
In July Regietów holds the Holiday Meeting with Opera . In ‘the Hucul Amphitheatre’, at a roofed riding arena of the Hucul Ponies Stable sounds of opera and operetta are heard. Outstanding singers from the best operas are invited to the event.
huculy.com.pl/2021/07/12/9512/
also a time of an incredibly aromatic event – ‘VilSmelling of Herbs in Lesser Poland’. It is a feast of the tradition and nature. It refers to the route of the same comprises agritourism farms in the commune. The place in Wysowa-Zdrój, in the amphitheatre of the The programme always includes lectures on herbs, an herbs, a book fair, artistic handicraft performance, regional cuisine and performances of regional bands.
The Feast of the Red Pine Mushroom commences autumn – it is an annual event organised at the turn of October when mountains are decorated with autumn colours and forests smell of mushrooms. Then, the amateurs of mushroom picking and the connoisseurs of red pine mushrooms come to Wysowa to stroll around a forest with a basket and participate in ‘Red Pine Mushroom Hunting’, listen to lectures on mycology, watch artistic performances and have fun at a dance!
swietorydza.pl
The information about current events can be found at:
The official website of the commune
usciegorlickie.pl
The Centre of Culture of the commune
kultura.usciegorlickie.pl
Holiday meetings with opera Holiday meetings with operaPiwniczna Commune is located in the bend of the Poprad River, in the south of Lesser Poland, in the heart of the Beskid Sądecki. Its eastern part lies on the slopes of the Jaworzyna Krynicka Range and the western one belongs to the Radziejowa Range. The Poprad, meandering between mountains, creates a picturesque valley. A few centuries ago, an important trade route from Hungary to Poland ran in this place. The villages and towns by the Poprad were developing intensively thanks to merchants who came there – their influence can be seen until today in the folklore of the commune. However, Piwniczna is, first and foremost, the land of Black Highlanders – their centuries-old traditions are visible in the regional cuisine,
costumes, dances, songs or crafts. A few regional bands are active in the commune. You can have regional dishes here and local craftsmen present their pieces at events and fairs.
Piwniczna equals mountains. In the mountains you will find huts and shelters where, by the fire, the guitar is played, tourist songs are created and poetry is sung. These are places where under the starry sky by the fire concerts are organised. Piwniczna-Zdrój is a resort more peaceful than neighbouring Krynica-Zdrój but there is no shortage of attractions created by nature or by human, modern ones but also those created on the basis of history and folklore.
The Centre of Culture in Piwniczna-Zdrój is the cultural heart of the commune located in the centre of the town (11 Rynek Street). Inside the building there is an auditorium where concerts are organised and plays are staged. The centre also organises outdoor concerts. Moreover, there
is the Centre of Tourist Information and the Regional Museum of Amateurs of Piwniczna Association where, apart from memorabilia, we can see a collection of skis including the ski of Adam Małysz.
mgok.piwniczna.pl
Local handicraft is an amazing element of the culture of a given region. The goods which have been manufactured for ages are of high quality, refined and have a rich history. Carter’s Gloves are such a product in Piwniczna. They have been woven in a traditional way for ages. Initially, they were made for carters (hence their name) who transported timber. The Weaving Trail has been created in the commune – it gathers local artists who weave the gloves with traditional and modern patterns. They also make hats or bands. The Regional Museum, where we can see the historic gloves, is also on the trail. The creators are trying to put their product on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Weaving workshops, exhibitions and various events focused on this traditional handicraft are organised in the commune.
rekawicefurmanskie.pl
Pijalnia Artystyczna (the Artistic Mineral Water Pump Room) in Piwniczna-Zdrój is located in the Spa Park. It is a place with a unique atmosphere. You can taste natural, geo-mineral water ‘Piwniczanka’ and have dessert or aromatic coffee there. Concerts, exhibitions, performances are organised and culture, including the local one is promoted there.
Being in Piwniczna, in the land of Highlanders, you need to get acquainted with their music. Regional bands perform during numerous local events and Highlander concerts are organised in the hotels of Piwniczna. Tysina Restaurant in Wierchomla Hotel*** Ski&Spa Resort holds ‘Regional Tuesdays’ i.e. dinners during which regional dishes are served and a real highlander band plays!
pijalnia-artystyczna.pl
12 km from Piwniczna-Zdrój, at the foot of mountains there is the climatic Chata pod Pustą (the Cottage at the foot of Pusta). It is a holiday lodge which comprises a large, underpinned cottage with a wooden construction (accommodation places for 25 guests in cosy 2-,3-, and 4-person rooms) and all-year-round 6-person wooden huts. Chata pod Pustą, apart from its beautiful location,
has something that makes it outstanding. Concerts which are organised there in summer under the stars and in winter by the fire have become cult events. Eminent Polish artists are always invited and the incredible place in the heart of the mountains adds charm to the concerts. The place offers dishes of regional cuisine.
chatapodpusta.pl
The cultural year in Piwniczna starts with ‘Carolling to the Little Shepherd’ – it is a series of Sunday concerts in January. The Procession of the Magi takes place on 6th January – it is an event full of local accents.
The Breakdance Battle is held in February.
However, summer is the most interesting time. In June, on St John’s Eve celebrations by the Poprad take place. It is an event full of magic which is based on the traditions of Black Highlanders. There are concerts, performances of regional bands, rafting on the Poprad and plaiting garlands. Traditionally, it was the last celebration of Highlanders before summer which was the time of hard work.
In April we can take part in the Competition of Easter Palms and the fair of Easter dishes and decorations.
In July, the Days of Piwniczna take place where the cultural heritage of the commune is presented. Polish stars appear and fairs with handicraft and traditional cuisine are present.
events and summer concerts take plathe Amphitheatre in the Spa Park.
It is worth visiting Łomnica-Zdrój to take part in the Festival of Dumplings which is organised in August. During the event, local traditions and products including Łomnicańskie dumplings (listed as a Traditional Dish). August is also the time when concerts within the Festival of Children of the Mountains are held. The festival is organised by the Centre of Culture ‘Sokół’ in Nowy Sącz.
September starts with the Festival of Black Sheep organised by Czarna Owca (Black Sheep) Restaurant. It is a feast of local cuisine and good music!
A great event which promotes music and local traditions is the Festival of Lachs and Highlanders in Sadecki Land which takes place in the tourist and recreation area ‘Nakło’ by the Poprad. The Hike along the War Couriers’ Trail is in September.
It is supposed to commemorate the activity of war couriers in Lesser Poland. Quests, celebrations at the monument and a vigil by the fire are organised.
In December the Competition of Carols and Pastorals takes place.
November is the time of patriotic events and celebration of independence.
Szczawnica Commune lies in one of the most beautiful corners of Poland, in the heart of the Pieniny Mountains, at the foot of the Beskid Sądecki. Its western part is a picturesque valley of the Dunajec. Former Shlakhtov Ruthenia stretches in the east – two villages, Szlachtowa and Jaworki, located in the Grajcarek Valley. The seat of the commune is Szczawnica-Zdrój.
Today Szczawnica is a beautiful combination of tradition, history, landscapes and spa resources. This is a place where everybody will find something for themselves and be able to breathe in the fresh air of the Pieniny. There are attractions popular nationwide – rafting, the Pieniny Tract, the Homole Canyon, Trzy Korony. However, there
are places where you can hide from the crowds and find peace – small Jaworki, clearings over the Grajcarek where sheep graze, old Orthodox churches where bats live! This land is the living folklore of Highlanders from Podhale, the Pieniny and Ruthenians. It is visible in their dialect, regional cuisine, costumes, music and rafting or pastoral traditions. The real feast of the folklore from Szczawnica is ‘redyk’ – the trailing of sheep to the pastures in spring and return to the valleys in autumn. In the past, the life of people in the region was connected with sheep grazing. The symbol of the region is a raftsman – a highlander attired in a traditional costume who leads his raft on the Dunajec and entertains tourists with his stories.
Dworek Gościnny (the Guest Manor) in Szczawnica was erected at the end of the 19th century, at the time when Szczawnica was developing intensively. Then, it was the centre of cultural life – there was an impressive ballroom and an auditorium with a stage, a restaurant, a patisserie and a piano room. Modrzejewska, Frenkiel or Solski spent their time at the place. Today’s building is a reconstruction
of the manor which was consumed by the fire in 1962 but its functions are similar. It is a cultural and business centre where cultural, business and family events are organised. At the place you can take part in a concert, a ball or a play. The restaurant in the building, Jazz Bar, is a place where various events are held for instance concerts
dworekgoscinny.pl
The Centre of Culture has its own auditorium where concerts and plays take place. The centre organises cultural events in other places (the Church in Szczawnica, the Guest Manor or the down station of the Chairlift to Palenica).
mokszczawnica.pl
The Museum of the Pieniny is located in Szlachtowa and presents the history, culture and geography of the region. We will see regional costumes, exhibits connected with crafts and traditions of the Pieniny. There is also an exhibition which will acquaint us with the world of local legends.
muzeum.sacz.pl
The Gallery of the Mineral Water Pump Room in Szczawnica is a place where an exhibition of the history of the spa and the family of Stadniccy is presented.
szczawnica-galeria.pl
Muzyczna Owczarnia (Music Sheepfold) is a cult place in the vicinity. It is an amazing music club which was created by Wieńczysław Kołodziejski. At the end of the 20th century the owner bought an old sheep fold and moved it from pastures to Biała Woda. He created a concert venue where concerts of excellent musicians take place. Music workshops and art exhibitions are held in a small gallery. Moreover, there are 12 accommodation places.
muzycznaowczarnia.pl
Museums show us exhibits thanks to which we can find out about culture. However, in summer you should go rafting on the Dunajec to get to know living traditions! Apart from the main attraction which is rafting through the most beautiful canyon in Poland, you can learn about some traditions of the Pieniny. There are traditional, wooden rafts led by raftsmen attired in regional costumes who will take you for a picturesque trip and tell you the story of this land and the most interesting legends!
The cultural year of Szczanica starts with Christmas plays, concerts of Christmas carols and the exceptional New Year’s Concert organised in Dworek Gościnny in January or February.
At the beginning of March the Run of Cursed Soldiers ‘On a Wolf’s Track’ is held. It is an event which is to commemorate the defenders who fought on Polish land after the Second World War.
In April when pastures turn green around the day of Saint Adalbert (23rd April), Spring Redyk (the Spring Trailing of Sheep) takes place. It is the traditional trailing of sheep with shepherds to pastures. Sheep with baca (a senior shepherd) and juhasi (shepherds) stay on pastures until autumn, until the day of Saint Michael (29th September). At the time, they descend to valleys and this event is known as Autumn Redyk (the Autumn Trailing of Sheep). Both of them are the biggest events in the commune and refer to former traditions – redyk was the most significant feast in a Highlander village. They attract tourists and are accompanied by concerts and fairs.Between both of them a lot of summer events are organised – it is the season of Szczawnica.
In May we can take part in May picnics and the festive beginning of the rafting season.
Children’s Summer in the Pieniny takes place in July – it is devoted to the youngest dwellers and tourists.
Baroque Explorations constitute another interesting proposition which presents the music and art of the Baroque. The best artists from the whole Europe are invited to the event organised by the Chamber of Szczawnica.
baroque.szczawnickichor.pl
The Days of Polish and Hungarian Friendship commence September – it is a great feast during which Polish and Hungarian musical groups appear.
Music over the Springs is a festival organised in August for a slightly older audience. It is a series of concerts of classical music which are held on stages, in churches, in the Bandshell and outdoors.
muzykanadzdrojami.pl
December abounds in fairs and concerts of carols.
The following months are rich in events connected with the anniversary of independence.
The information about current events can be found at:
The official website of the commune
szczawnica.pl
The Centre of Culture
mokszczawnica.pl
Cracow and its spa district – Swoszowice – is an ideal place for those who want to relax in a spa, improve their health and be close to the attractions at the highest level, UNESCO sites and numerous cultural events. Swoszowice is located in the south of the city – in its peaceful and green part. Deposits of sulphur and sulphide water are its biggest treasure. The place offers treatments and sulphide baths after which we can take a walk in the Spa Park. There is the small Centre of Culture, the Museum of War Matters, spa architecture and places where health
visitors used to have fun during the golden era of the estate. At the same time, we have all the cultural treats of Cracow at hand. Only a few kilometres away the Old Town is located which is full of historic sites from various periods, full of art, museums, cultural events, cafes and pubs. Kazimierz, which is an artistic part of Cracow, is also at a stone’s throw. As far as culture is concerned, Swoszowice is the best situated resort in Poland. Where would it be more interesting than in the city of culture?
Cracow is the city of art. Jan Matejko had his house, worked and left a few of his outstanding works there. This is the place where Veit Stoss created his famous altar. Stanisław Wyspiański decorated churches with his stained glass. ‘Lady with an Ermine’ by Leonardo da Vinci and ‘Landscape with the Good Samaritan’ by Rembrandt have their houses in the city. It is impossible to count all the works of art which are in Cracow. The most interesting ones are presented in the temples, for instance in Saint Mary’s Basilica where we can admire the famous altar by Veit Stoss (opened on weekdays at 11.50, on holidays at 14.10 and closed at 18.00). Not only are they available in museums, especially in the branches of the National Museum (https://mnk.pl) and the Museum of Cracow, but also in numerous private facilities. The most popular ones are the Underground Square Central Museum which is a branch of the Museum of Cracow It is an interactive exhibition under the Cloth Hall and the Square. On the first floor of the Cloth Hall there is the Gallery of Polish Art of the 19th century. he Town Hall Tower and Krzysztofory Palace, where an exhibition of
Nativity scenes is held during the Christmas period, can be also visited in the Square. In Floriańska Street there is the House of Jan Matejko, in Poselska Street there is the Archeological Museum of Cracow. The university district will interest us with the Museum of the Jagiellonian University Collegium Maius where we will see the musical clock performance at 9:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 and 17:00 (the procession of historical figures which move outside are connected with Cracow Academy). We will be able to see the Princes Czartoryski Museum at 8 Pijarska Street – ‘the Lady with an Ermine’ by Leonardo da Vinci is displayed there. The Living Museum of Obwarzanek (a kind of Polish bagel) by the Kleparz Square organises workshops of baking this traditional delicacy. In Swoszowice we can pay a visit to the Museum of War Matters which is located in Fort 51 1/2 Swoszowice (one of the forts which were created at Galicia times as a part of Cracow Fortress by Austria-Hungary). Inside, we will see the exhibition which presents the history of weaponry and the army equipment from the First World War.
1
2
the Main Building of the National Museum in Cracow
The underground of the Square
muzeumkrakowa.pl
mnk.pl
muzeumkrakowa.pl
mnk.pl
manggha.pl
mnk.pl
The Krzysztofory Palace
The House of Józef Mehoffer
The Princes Czartoryski Museum
The Museum of Japanese Art and Technology Manggha
The House of Jan Matejko
The Museum of Contemporary Art MOCAK
mocak.pl
muzeumobwarzanka.com
mswojsk.com
ma.krakow.pl
maius.uj.edu.pl
Cracow is the city of culture and it has the biggest number of theatres out of all the spas in Lesser Poland. We can choose from the big ones with a long history and pre-war traditions or small stages with an intimate atmosphere. Cracow was the place where in the second half of the 16th century the first Polish paschal mystery Historyja o chwalebnym Zmartwychwstaniu Pańskim (the Story of the Glorious Resurrection of Jesus) by Mikołaj from Wilkowiecko was published. The theatre has been developing in this place since the Middle Ages and during the Jagiellonian times plays were often staged at the Wawel. In 1781 the first national stage was created – the Theatre of Kraków – which in 1956 changed its name into the National Stary Theatre and today it is named after
Helena Modrzejewska who used to play there frequently. The smallest out of all the theatres of Cracow is the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre which was created in 1893 (until 1909 it had functioned as the Municipal Theatre). Plays staged at the highest level can be seen in the Modern Theatre, the Grotesque Theatre, the STU Theatre or the Bagatela Theatre which is famous for the best comedies. One of the smallest stages can be found in the Loch Camelot Theatre in Zaułek Niewiernego Tomasza (the Backstreet of Doubting Thomas) The BARAKAH Theatre is also exceptional – it is located in Kazimierz in the building which used to be the Jewish Mikveh. The amateurs of music should attend the Opera of Cracow or the Cracow Philharmonic.
The Bagatela Theatre
The STU Theatre groteska.pl
scenastu.pl
The Bagatela Theatre
bagatela.pl
The Opera of Cracow
opera.krakow.pl
The BARAKAH Theatre
teatrbarakah.com
The Cracow Philharmonic
filharmoniakrakow.pl
Michalik’s Den was created in 1895 as the Lviv Patisserie by Jan Michalik who came from Lviv. At the beginning of the 20th century the legendary cabaret ‘Green Balloon’ operated there. During the Interwar Period it was the place where artists, writers and bohemian artists met. The ideas of Young Poland were born there. Malczewski, Przybyszewski, Rydel or Wyspiański spent their time at the place. From 1960 to 1991 the Michaik’s Den Cabaret operated there. Today concerts of famous artists take place at the venue. However, you can visit the place just to have something to eat in this artistic atmosphere.
jamamichalika.pl
Cracow is a city which has an artistic soul. Even though the Old Town was adored by bohemian artists, Kazimierz is said to have the greatest artistic vibe. Cafes with unique character, artistic workshops and galleries of famous creators are situated in this district. Kazimierz has a long history – it was founded under Magdeburg law as a town in the 14th century by Casimir III the Great in order to relieve the overpopulated capital. Jews were banned from Cracow after the Great Fire in 1495 as they had been blamed for it. They found their refuge in Kazimierz. At the time, the Jewish part was separated from the Christian one with a high wall which was supposed to separate the two communities. With Austrian rule in the 19th and 20th century, all people were equalled irrespective of their faith. Due to this fact, the Jewish community received more rights and
could move to other parts of Kazimierz, Stradom and, of course, Cracow. They had lived there until 1939 when they were violently forced out by the Nazis.
At present, Kazimierz is full of beautiful architecture and soaked with Jewish culture. It’s worth visiting it to see Szeroka Street which will take us to the times when the Jewish people inhabited the district. We can also go into the Old Synagogue where traditions, religious rites and temporary exhibitions are displayed. Remugh Synagogues together with the Old Jewish Cemetery is also an interesting spot in the same street. The synagogue functions until today and thanks to famous Rabbis and Talmudists including Mojżesz Isserles it attracts numerous pilgrims from around the world who honour them by bringing symbolic stones.
A walk in the Jewish district of artists
‘Kunszt’ (Artistry) is a Polish family company which offers elegant, thematic, printed presents of high quality. The designing studio and the printing house are located in Cracow. It is a place where creative professionals from various fields work. ‘Kunszt’ will prepare everything essential to create an image of every company and promote it. The company prides themselves on selling goods produced in Poland.
They offer a wide selection of products – a variety of gadgets or individualised gifts. There are advertising clothes, accessories, glasses, bags, bum bags or umbrellas. There are also gadgets ideal for presents – small devices, pocket knives, key rings, mirrors, thermal mugs and porcelain ones. Business gadgets such as pens, notepads, memory sticks or conference packages are available as well. Individualised games, toys or travel accessories can be also found in ‘Kunszt’. They have permanent and temporary offers which include calendars, notepads, mouse pads or pencils. All the products are printed. If you visit their site, there are vast catalogues of goods they offer.
Address: ul.Ułanów 21 B, 31-450 Kraków
E-mail: kunszt@kunszt.krakow.pl
Phone: +48 12 423 43 60, 501 451 972
kunszt.krakow.pl
podkladkipodmysz.pl
There are as many works of art in Cracow as cultural events. One of the most famous ones organised in the city is the Parade of the Lajkonik i.e. traditional prancing of the White Hobbyhorsewhich takes place during the Corpus Christi. The Lajkonik together with his procession has been taking the same route for years. Citizens of Cracow accompany him to the sound of Cracow music. The Procession of the Lajkonik has been listed as intangible cultural heritage
June is a time when famous ‘Wianki’ (Garlands) take place. It is a feast of music inspired by Slavic rituals connected with the summer solstice. The event is organised at the Vistula Boulevards by the Festival Office of Cracow
wianki.krakow.pl
Moreover, the University Students’ Festival is also a popular event which takes place in May – everybody will find something for themselves during it.
The cultural year is finished with the Competition of Nativity Scenes organised by the Museum of Cracow. The Competition has taken place since 1937. Along with the tradition on the first Thursday of December Christmas crib makers present their works of art on the steps of the monument of Adam Mickiewicz. The nativity scenes can be admired to the end of January in the municipal area.
The amateurs of opera will be delighted to take part in the Summer Festival of Opera. The ones who are in search of something more avant garde should participate in the Sacred and the Profane Festival
sacrumprofanum.com
Rabka Commune is located in the south-west part of Lesser Poland, in the Rabczańska Valley surrounded by the mountains. The seat of the commune is Rabka-Zdrój – the town of Children of the World whose history dates back to the 12th century. The town is surrounded by three villages: Chabówka, Rdzawka and Ponice – each of them has a different character and various attractions. Brine constitutes the greatest treasure of the commune – it was the reason why the spa was established which initially was devoted to children. The mountains are the second treasure of the area. Within the commune numerous tourist trails start which take us to the Island Beskids and the Gorce National
Park. From the nearby mountain tops, you will be able to admire the Tatras and Babia Mountain. Deeply rooted traditions and the folklore of the Highlanders from Rabka, the Gorce and Podhale are also of great importance to the place. There, you can listen to regional music, singing, admire highlander dances, folk art and crafts or taste local cuisine. The Museum of Highlanders and Brigands is the perfect spot to get acquainted with the history of these groups. The culture in Rabka Commune means events organised for children, connected with children’s fiction or The National Puppetry 'Rabcio’.
The Museum of Highlanders and Brigands has its seat in a historic, highlander cottage from the 19th century (the House under Three Madonnas). We will find there modern, interactive exhibitions presenting the history of the region and the folklore of Highlanders from Rabka. Visitors can try to do former chores of highlanders to get a Brigant Tracker Badge. We can also see the works of Jan Fudala – Jasiek from the Gorce and Zygmunt Pytlik (https:// chataartystyczna.wixsite.com/muzeumzbojnikow). The Museum of Władysław Orkan is of a bit different character. It has its seat in a wooden church which dates back to the 17th century. The building itself is a valuable historic site on the Wooden Architecture Route. The pipe organs with the choir balcony from 1778 constitute the most precious
part of the church (in summer concerts are organised) and the polychromy from 1802. Moreover, exhibitions on pottery, pasturing, costumes and former folk sculptures are displayed in four rooms (http://muzeum-orkana.pl/). ‘Pod Aniołem’ (Under the Angel) Villa is the seat of the Gallery under the Angel where exhibitions of local artists, literary meetings, declamation evenings, vernissages and concerts are held. ‘Pod Lilianą’ Gallery should also draw our attention. It is one of the oldest galleries in Rabka-Zdrój where works of local artists and craftsmen are displayed, where you can take part in interesting workshops for instance painting on glass or wood, paper tissue craft, wood sculpture, embroidery, ceramics or pottery. The artists from Rabka run the classes.
The National Puppetry 'Rabcio’ was founded 70 years ago as an amateur theatre. It was supposed to entertain children who stayed in the resort. The forest plays took place on a movable stage with puppets made by Władysław Biedroń and Stanisław Ciężadlik. During the first performance the
name of the theatre was chosen together with the audience – ‘Rabcio-Zdrowotek’ (Rabcio the Healthy). At present, the theatre has its seat in Rabka-Zdrój at 3c Orkan Street. It stages puppet shows and traditional plays and its main idea is to entertain the youngest health visitors and tourists.
In summer time train rides are organised in the Museum of Rail in Chabówka. This is an amazing journey on a historic train which consists of a steam locomotive and wagons which are 80 years old! The trains run to Kasina Wielka – the train station at the foot of Śnieżnica which is one of the highest and most beautifully located train stations in Poland.
skansenchabowka.pl
The information about current events can be found at:
gmina.rabka.pl
mok.rabka.pl
July offers another proposition for children – Rabka Festival, which is the International Festival of Children’s Fiction. The festival hosts eminent Polish and foreign authors. There are authors’ sessions, artistic events or writing, acting and music workshops. There is a separate program for adults.
rabkafestival.pl
‘Jemy borówki na polu, czyli wakacyjne spotkanie z Językiem polskim’ (‘We eat blueberries outside that is a holiday meeting with Polish language’) is another literary event. For a few days various meetings take place which are called ‘a language SPA’ by the organisers. They touch upon numerous issues connected with the way we speak, why we do so and how we can communicate better.
jemyborowkinapolu.pl
The holidays finish with the Commune Harvest Festival – a traditional celebration during which we can admire regional folklore. Concerts are organised at the time and local hostesses offer regional delicacies.
November is a time of traditional All Souls’ Day
Christmas Handicraft Fair takes place in December.
Highlanders of Podhale – people of rich and deeply rooted traditions – dwell in a vast plain spreading at the foot of the Tatra Mountains in Lesser Poland. Podhale equals breathtaking views, unique nature, cuisine full of mutton and oscypek (sheep cheese) and the culture which is known nationwide. In the west of Podhale, halfway between Babia Mountain and Rysy, Czarny Dunajec Commune is situated. In the valley of the river which bears the same name, 14 small villages are scattered which together create one of the biggest communes in Poland. People who live in the area mainly cultivate their land and work in the field of
tourism. This is an ideal place for tourists who seek quiet and intimate places far away from crowds. In agritourism farms and private guest houses you can get to know the culture of Highlanders from the inside. Highlanders from Podhale are people who live in the vein of strongly rooted and living traditions, folk artists, painters, sculptors and musicians. There is no shortage of folk bands and events promoting local culture and art. We are able to admire architecture and even the whole villages which are living museums at every step.
Podhale equals music and highlander dances! Music has always been significant in the tradition of Highlanders. The ability to play music and dance is passed down from generation to generation. Highlanders play the instruments created by themselves such as the fife, the pipe, the trombite, the bagpipes, the gusle but also the popular ones like the violin. Men dance so-called ‘Zbójnicki’ (the Dance of Brigands) which is supposed to show how strong and nimble they are. Another dance, in pairs this time, is ‘Krzesany’ – a very fast and vibrant one. There are a few regional bands for children, teenagers and adults in the commune. We can see their performances at various events in the whole commune including the stage of the Centre of Culture and Promotion of Czarny Dunajec Commune. This is a great chance to learn about the living traditions.
ckip.org
Watra Band
‘Highlander Watchfire’ is one of the events offered by Eko Taxi which organises trips around Czarny Dunajec Commune and Podhale. A campfire with a feast constitutes an element of the rich tradition of Podhale. Singing and feasting in nature, warm flames and delicious food have
always brought people together and allow groups to draw closer and relax after a whole day of sightseeing. Such an attraction will be remembered for a very long time and let us feel the traditions of the region, get to know the local music, listen to the dialect and stories.
E-mail: chocholowskietaxi@gmail.com
Phone: 607-945-695
chocholowskie.eu
Chocholowskie.eu
Wooden buildings in Chochołów constitute one of the most valuable treasures of the commune. It is a characteristic element of the whole Podhale. You can admire there over 100 year old cottages which form a linear settlement along the main road. The most interesting ones include ‘the house from one fir tree’ whose front wall was entirely made from the wood of one, huge fir tree or Jan Zięder Regional Chamber – a private museum and a sculpting szlakrzemiosla.pl
studio of a folk artist and Aniela Stanek’s Gallery of Glass Painting. The Museum of Chochołów Uprising has its seat in the cottage which belonged to a rich man, Jan Bafia. The Uprising broke out in Podhale on 22nd February 1846 against Austrian rule and was a significant event in the history of the region. The Museum displays the Uprising memorabilia and objects connected with the daily life of a Highlander family in the 19th century.
Summer
The information about current events can be found at:
The Centre of Culture and Promotion of Czarny Dunajec Commune
ckip.org
In August ‘ Wieczornica z Wyszyńskim’ (the Evening with Wyszyński) is organised. abounds in various open-air concerts
November is strictly connected with various celebrations of independence. JULY
October is a time of ‘ Przeziyracka Młodych Toniecników i Śpiywoków Góralskich’ (Overview of Young Talents and Highlander Musicians) or the famous harvest fair known as ‘Hołdymas’.
In December concerts of Christmas carols and pastorales – sung in a highlander dialect of course – take place.