Kościelisko

The commune of Kościelisko, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship within the Tatra County, has a rich administrative history. It was established in 1934 as a collective commune, but after World War II, its previous status was restored. In 1954, the commune was abolished and transformed into a gromada (a smaller administrative unit), and subsequent administrative changes led to the creation of the Kościelisko-Witów commune in 1973, which included the village of Kościelisko and other local administrative units. This commune underwent numerous reforms until 1994, when the new commune of Kościelisko was established, encompassing the local administrative units of Dzianisz, Kościelisko, and Witów. The commune is a popular tourist destination, thanks to its picturesque landscapes and proximity to the Tatra National Park. In 2022, it was inhabited by 9,026 people. Architecturally, traditional wooden buildings typical of the Podhale region dominate, characterized by regional decorations. The commune's culture is closely tied to the highlanders, their customs, music, and dances, which is reflected in the numerous cultural events organized in the area. Kościelisko borders the communes of Czarny Dunajec, Poronin, and Zakopane, and also shares a border with Slovakia, fostering cultural exchange and cross-border tourism. Within the commune, visitors can find a range of tourist attractions, such as mountain trails, ski resorts, and extensive facilities for winter and summer sports enthusiasts. With an area of 136.37 km², 63% of which is covered by forests, the commune is an important natural asset of the region. An interesting fact is that despite historical and administrative changes, Kościelisko has preserved its strong highland traditions, making it a place rich in cultural and natural treasures.