Pieniny National Park

The Pieniny National Park, established on June 1, 1932, is the first national park in Poland, located in the picturesque Lesser Poland Voivodeship. Covering an area of 2,346 hectares, it encompasses the most valuable regions of the Pieniny Mountains, including the Trzy Korony Massif and the Czorsztyn Pieniny. The park is distinguished by its rich fauna and flora, with over 7,000 animal species, including 235 vertebrate species and 6,500 invertebrate species, many of which are endemic or relicts found only in the Pieniny Mountains. Rare species include the Apollo butterfly and the Rosalia longicorn. The park's flora comprises 1,100 vascular plant species, including the endemic Pieniny goldenroot and Pieniny dandelion. Due to its diverse habitats, the park is also home to numerous orchid and algae species, as well as the relict pine in the endemic plant community Calamagrostio variae-Pinetum. The history of the Pieniny National Park dates back to the 1920s, when efforts were made to protect this region. Its establishment was the result of years of scientific research and the purchase of private lands. The park also has a cultural dimension, highlighted by its economic and tourist activities, including the popular rafting trips on the Dunajec River and numerous hiking trails. The Pieniny National Park is managed through conservation efforts such as monitoring rare species, meadow mowing, and the reintroduction of endangered animals, such as the peregrine falcon. Additionally, the park features information pavilions and rock gardens with characteristic plants. In 1960, the park gained international recognition when the International Union for Conservation of Nature highlighted its exceptional natural and landscape value. As one of the most beautiful places in Europe, the Pieniny National Park captivates visitors with its biodiversity and stunning landscapes.