Grzechynia

Grzechynia is a picturesque village located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, within the municipality of Maków Podhalański, known for its rich history, architecture, and cultural uniqueness. Within its boundaries, there are significant sites such as the Branch of the Public Library, the Mikołaj Rej Primary School, and chapels: the Chapel of Our Lady of Częstochowa and the historic 18th-century shrine with the Holy Figure of Christ Falling Under the Cross. An important element of village life is the "Kazimierz" Bell and the sports field of the WKS Grom Grzechynia club. Grzechynia also boasts illustrious historical figures, including Colonel Ludwik Bałos and Father Kazimierz Jancarz, who was an opposition activist during the Polish People's Republic. The settlement gained public recognition also thanks to Father Dr. Piotr Natanek, a suspended priest and founder of the Pustelnia Niepokalanów (Hermitage of the Immaculate). The history of Grzechynia dates back to the 16th century, and the village is associated with the legend of King John Casimir, whom the inhabitants offered help in exchange for land. Over the centuries, the village transformed its character, evolving from forest settlements into mountainous terrain. Grzechynia is known for its beautiful landscapes, situated at the northeastern end of the Przedbabiogórskie Range, with diverse mountain peaks and forests. Transportation to the village is provided by an asphalt road, which replaced the narrow-gauge railway discontinued after World War II, once serving local mills and sawmills. Although the village aims to develop tourism, traditional agriculture is also present, though on a limited scale. Farms primarily focus on growing potatoes and grains, as well as breeding Hutsul horses. Interestingly, Grzechynia is the site of a battle fought by the Bar Confederates, and the memory of these events is preserved in local shrines. Today, the village continues to attract tourists, offering numerous holiday and agritourism centers, which aligns with its religious heritage. Despite its small size, Grzechynia holds a rich history and culture, providing both residents and visitors with a unique insight into traditional life in the Beskids.