After settling into my new role in Juba, South Sudan, I returned to Poland for a much-needed holiday in August 2011. Among the highlights of my trip was a visit to the Nowy Sącz Ethnographic Park, a place I had long wanted to explore more deeply. Spending a full day at this incredible museum was a deeply enriching experience, reconnecting me with the history and traditions of the region I call home. The Nowy Sącz Ethnographic Park: A Treasure of Polish Heritage The Nowy Sącz Ethnographic Park, or Sądecki Park Etnograficzny, is one of Poland’s largest and most renowned open-air museums, offering a fascinating glimpse into the traditional architecture, culture, and daily life of the Lesser Poland region. Established in 1975, the park was designed to preserve and showcase the diverse heritage of the local communities, including the Highlanders, Lemkos, and Polish-Ukrainian populations, among others. The Setting Spread across 20 hectares, the park features over 70 buildings, including houses, farms, churches, schools, and craft workshops, all carefully reconstructed to reflect their original settings. The landscape is meticulously designed, with gardens, orchards, and fields enhancing the authenticity of the experience. Historical Importance The museum plays a vital role in preserving the cultural identity of southern Poland, showcasing the architectural and artistic traditions that define the region. It is a testament to the rich tapestry of cultures that have coexisted here for centuries, each contributing unique elements to the area’s collective heritage. Highlights of the Visit The Village Layout The park is arranged as a typical rural village, complete with traditional wooden cottages, barns, and outbuildings. Walking through the village feels like stepping back in time, with each building telling its own story of the people who lived and worked there. Religious and Communal Spaces • Church of St. Peter and Paul: This 17th-century wooden church is one of the park’s most striking features. The intricate folk art decorations and iconostasis highlight the deep spiritual traditions of the region. • Village School: Visiting the reconstructed schoolhouse offered insight into the educational practices of the past, with its simple wooden desks and chalkboards evoking a sense of nostalgia. Craft and Trades The park also features workshops showcasing traditional trades like blacksmithing, weaving, and pottery. These displays highlight the incredible craftsmanship that was integral to rural life in the region. The Lemko and Ukrainian Sections One of the most fascinating areas of the park is dedicated to the Lemko and Polish-Ukrainian communities. The Lemko Orthodox Church, with its distinctive architecture and vibrant colours, stands out as a symbol of the cultural diversity that has long defined the area. Why It Matters The Nowy Sącz Ethnographic Park is more than just a museum—it’s a living repository of history and culture. It offers visitors a chance to: • Understand the rural traditions of southern Poland. • Appreciate the architectural and artistic achievements of the region’s communities. • Reflect on the interconnectedness of cultures, as seen in the harmonious coexistence of different ethnic and religious groups. Through its exhibitions, the park fosters a deeper appreciation for the heritage that continues to shape the region’s identity today. Spending a full day at the Nowy Sącz Ethnographic Park was a journey through time, offering a vivid window into the lives of those who shaped the culture and traditions of Lesser Poland. The experience reminded me of the richness of my homeland and the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations. For anyone visiting Nowy Sącz, the park is a must-see destination. It’s a place of learning, reflection, and inspiration—a celebration of the resilience and creativity of the communities that call this region home. For more information about the Nowy Sącz Ethnographic Park, visit the official website: https://muzeum.sacz.pl/en/branches/sadecki-ethnographic-park.