Białka Tatrzańska

Białka Tatrzańska, a picturesque village in southern Poland, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, in the Tatra County, is primarily known as an attractive tourist destination, especially in winter, thanks to its excellent conditions for winter sports. The village boasts numerous ski resorts, including Kotelnica Białczańska, which has been awarded the title of the Best Ski Resort in Poland. The Białka River also offers opportunities for extreme sports such as white-water kayaking. Additionally, in 2011, the thermal baths Terma Bania were opened, famous for their water temperature of around 80 degrees Celsius. Białka Tatrzańska has rich cultural traditions; it is home to the regional folk ensemble Białcanie and the Theater Group "Coz Teroz Bedzie?", which showcases local traditions and creativity. It is also worth mentioning the renowned poet Hanka Nowobielska, who debuted in 1936 and gained recognition for her poems. From an architectural perspective, a notable historic site is the wooden Church of St. Simon and St. Jude Thaddeus, listed on the Wooden Architecture Trail, featuring a Baroque interior and a rich history of renovations. The history of the village dates back to the 17th century when it was founded by Stanisław Witowski, and the first village head (sołtys) was Wojciech Nowobilski, who obtained the founding document in 1637. The inhabitants were engaged in agriculture, pastoralism, and furriery, producing famous Białczańskie sheepskin coats. The name "Białka" originates from the original "Nowa Białka," associated with the Nowobielski family. In 1855, a school was established here, and in 1935, a convent of the Seraphic Sisters was founded, which now serves as a social care home. Białka Tatrzańska, with its rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage, remains one of the key locations in the Podhale region.