Old Sącz

Stary Sącz is a picturesque town in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, situated in the Sądecka Basin at the confluence of the Dunajec and Poprad rivers. The town is renowned for its rich cultural and historical heritage; it was granted town rights in the 13th century, and its first mention dates back to 1257, when the lands were gifted to Princess Kinga. Over the centuries, Stary Sącz has inspired many artists, including Nikifor Krynicki and Jan Cybis, and has served as a filming location for movies such as "Wakacje z Madonną" (Holidays with Madonna). Stary Sącz is prized for its architectural monuments, such as the Poor Clares monastery, founded by Princess Kunegunda. The local Church of St. Clare and the Holy Trinity houses valuable 13th-century musical manuscripts and unique organs that were restored between 2021 and 2023. Stary Sącz is also home to the annual Starosądecki Festival of Early Music, which has been held since 1975. The town is surrounded by recreational areas and the Poprad Landscape Park. It has a rich history, including tragic events from World War II when a ghetto was established for Jews. In addition to its partnerships with towns in various countries, Stary Sącz has an active Volunteer Fire Department (OSP), founded in 1874. Local sports clubs, such as MKS Sokół and MUKS Poprad, contribute to the development of the local sports culture. Interestingly, in 1770, the town was the site of skirmishes during the Bar Confederation, and in 1683, King John III Sobieski stopped here to honor the memory of Saint Kinga. The market square architecture and preserved medieval urban elements make Stary Sącz an intriguing destination for both tourists and history researchers.