Kasina Wielka

Kasina Wielka is a picturesque village located in the Beskid Wyspowy mountain range, within the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. It boasts a medieval origin, with the first historical mentions dating back to the 14th century. The name of the village, associated with the Kasinianka River, derives from the term for an acidic substance, indicating its historical presence in the region. Kasina is renowned for its tourist attractions, including hiking and cycling trails, as well as a long ski lift on the slopes of Śnieżnica. The village has rich cultural traditions, being home to notable figures such as Justyna Kowalczyk, a famous cross-country skier, and Stanisław Dobrowolski, a sculptor known as the "Bard of the Carpathians." Kasina features a historic wooden church dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene from 1678, which is listed in the register of monuments, as well as a monument to the soldiers of the 24th Uhlan Regiment. The history of the village is rich and complex, linked to the activities of the Cistercians, its establishment under Magdeburg Law, and various owners over the centuries, including the Niewiarowski family. During the partitions of Poland, Kasina fell under Austrian rule, leading to the confiscation of monastic properties. In World War II, the village witnessed fierce battles and Nazi repression, resulting in the execution of many residents. After the war, Kasina gained tourist significance, with its appeal further enhanced by film projects by Steven Spielberg and Andrzej Wajda, which were shot in the area. This region is an ideal destination for nature and history enthusiasts, with its monuments and beautiful landscapes attracting tourists from all over Poland.