Poronin

Poronin is a rural municipality located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, within the Tatra County. Its administrative seat is the town of Poronin, and the municipality includes the following villages: Bustryk, Małe Ciche, Murzasichle, Nowe Bystre, Poronin, Suche, Stasikówka, and Ząb. The municipality covers an area of 83.55 km², of which 56% is forested land and 39% is agricultural land. Poronin was part of the Nowy Sącz Voivodeship from 1975 to 1977 and again from 1994 to 1998. According to data from 2004, it had a population of 10,571. The history of the municipality dates back to 1934, when the collective municipality of Poronin was formed from previously existing individual rural municipalities. During World War II, the municipality retained its borders, and in 1943, it had 9,083 inhabitants. After the war, the municipality was restored to its pre-war status. In 1954, municipalities were abolished and replaced by gromadas (smaller administrative units). The municipality of Poronin was reinstated in 1973 and underwent several changes in its borders and administrative affiliation over the years. Finally, in 1994, the new municipality of Poronin was established, incorporating several villages that previously belonged to the municipalities of Biały Dunajec and Czarny Dunajec, giving it its distinctive shape. Since 1999, the municipality has been part of the newly created Tatra County in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. Interestingly, despite administrative changes, Poronin has preserved its traditional character as a mountainous region with numerous tourist attractions and beautiful landscapes. Architecturally, the area is dominated by traditional Tatra-style wooden houses and religious buildings that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. The municipality is also a hub of vibrant cultural life, including highland folklore, and hosts various events and festivals that highlight its unique traditions and customs.