Nowy Sącz County

Nowosądecki County, established in 1999 as part of the administrative reform, is located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, with its seat in Nowy Sącz. The history of this region dates back to the 13th century, when the Sącz castellany was recorded. In 1257, Bolesław the Chaste granted the Sącz land to Kinga, the founder of the Poor Clares monastery in Stary Sącz, which influenced the administrative development of the region. Nowy Sącz was founded in 1292, relocated to the village of Kamienica, contributing to its dynamic growth. The city boasts numerous historical monuments, including a Gothic castle and a historic market square, reflecting its rich architectural heritage. Over the centuries, the region faced natural disasters and invasions, and after the First Partition of Poland, it came under Austrian rule, which impacted its administrative structures. World War II brought significant changes, and the city was liberated in 1945. The county's economy is based on agriculture, which covers 47% of its area, and tourism, with numerous hotels and restaurants catering to visitors. The region is known for its beautiful mountains, river valleys, and forests, with the Poprad Landscape Park as a key feature. The area also offers attractive tourist spots, such as the health resorts in Krynica-Zdrój, Muszyna, and Piwniczna-Zdrój, while the annual Flowering Apple Tree Festival in Łącko and Dolna Łososina attracts tourists. Nowosądecki County is also a place of rich cultural heritage, where influences of various denominations can be found, primarily Roman Catholic, but also Orthodox, Greek Catholic, and others. The region is renowned for its traditional Lemko wooden churches and magnificent churches. It is also worth mentioning Kamianna, known as the world center of apitherapy. Thus, Nowosądecki County is a place with a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and tourist attractions, making it an interesting destination for both tourists and residents.