Galician Market Square

The Galician Market Square at the Museum of Folk Architecture in Sanok was opened on September 16, 2011, and is an architectural reconstruction of a Galician town from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. It covers an area of 5,500 m² and is surrounded by 26 buildings reflecting local wooden architecture, including log and post-and-beam houses, all covered with wood shingles. The square features replicas of various establishments such as an inn, a post office, a fire station, and artisan workshops, creating a comprehensive picture of life during that period. The idea of building the small-town sector emerged in the 1980s, and the project took many years to complete, supported by experts and EU funding. The total cost of the endeavor exceeded 20 million PLN. Galicia was a multi-ethnic region where, alongside Poles and Ruthenians, Jews, Germans, and Armenians also lived, making the towns culturally diverse. Historically, Galician towns played an important commercial role, hosting weekly markets and monthly fairs where a variety of goods were traded. Thus, the market square in Sanok is not only a tourist attraction but also an important educational site where visitors can explore the rich history and culture of the region. Interestingly, films have been shot at the square, and in 2012, the museum received the "Product of the Year of the Sanok Land" award for the Galician Market Square. The tourist potential of this site may be further enhanced in the future by the planned construction of a replica synagogue, which would emphasize its multicultural character even more.