Jaworki

Jaworki is a village located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, on the border of the Małe Pieniny and the Beskid Sądecki mountain ranges, with a rich history dating back to the 15th century when it was settled by nomadic Vlach shepherds. Until 1951, the area formed a Lemko ethnographic enclave known as Ruś Szlachtowska, distinguished by its unique culture and traditions. Tourist attractions include the ruins of Homola Castle, numerous nature reserves such as the Homole Gorge and Zaskalskie-Bodnarówka, as well as religious sites like the Greek Catholic church and the Church of St. John the Baptist. Jaworki also offers entertainment venues, including the Muzyczna Owczarnia (Musical Sheepfold) and the Jaworki-Homole Ski Arena. Notably, the development of shepherding after World War II, particularly the introduction of pastoral training programs in the 1950s, significantly influenced the local economy. In 1962, Jaworki was incorporated into Szczawnica, but in 2008 it regained its status as an independent village, merged with the former villages of Biała Woda and Czarna Woda. An interesting fact is that some scenes from the 1975 film "Mazepa" were shot in Jaworki. Today, the village is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and shepherding traditions, attracting tourists interested in both nature and local culture.