Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is a picturesque municipality located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, renowned primarily for its rich cultural heritage and tourist attractions. The area is dominated by two massifs: Lanckorona, with the ruins of a medieval castle, and Mount Żar, which serves as a starting point for hiking trails. Within the municipality lies the Passion-Marian Sanctuary of the Bernardine Fathers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex includes the Basilica of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Angels and 42 chapels and churches, making it a major pilgrimage destination, especially during Holy Week. Additionally, Kalwaria Zebrzydowska boasts numerous historical monuments, including wooden churches from the 17th and 18th centuries, the Chapel of St. Rosalia, and historic 19th-century houses. Culturally, the area is vibrant with numerous institutions such as the Center for Culture, Sports, and Tourism, which offers a variety of events, festivals, and educational activities for children and youth. The municipality is also distinguished by its many sports clubs, with football being the most popular sport. The economy of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is primarily based on the furniture industry, with traditions dating back to the 17th century, as well as agriculture, though the latter is less developed. Despite a decline in the number of craft workshops, the municipality organizes Furniture Fairs to promote local artisans. Historically, the area has been known since Slavic times, with numerous documents confirming settlement. Kalwaria also benefits from local legends and annual events that attract tourists, making it a significant point of interest on the map of Lesser Poland.