Sąspów

Sąspów is a picturesque village in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, located in the upper part of the Sąspowska Valley, within the municipality of Jerzmanowice-Przeginia. It boasts a rich history, with the first mentions of the settlement dating back to 1326. Notable landmarks include the Parish Church of St. Catherine, situated on a limestone rock. The church, along with its bell tower and surroundings, is listed in the register of immovable monuments of the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. The church venerates an image of Our Lady of the Snows, associated with a legend about an extraordinary episode during the church's construction when the Virgin Mary appeared to the builders. Also worth mentioning is the Villa Koziarnia, the only manor house in the municipality, built in the interwar style, and the Koziarnia Cave, which houses the Seismological Observatory of the Polish Academy of Sciences. The village has also faced challenging times, such as in 2010 when residents struggled with severe frosts and flooding, which impacted daily life and infrastructure. In the 1950s, a new primary school was built, with the first mention of an educational institution in Sąspów dating back to 1518. The demographic structure of the village in 2021 consisted of 1,326 residents, with a slight majority of women. Administratively, the village was part of the Kraków Voivodeship from 1975 to 1998. Sąspów is surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland and is crossed by the Sąspówka stream, making it an interesting destination for both tourists and those seeking tranquility. A yellow tourist trail runs through the village, connecting it to the Prądnik Valley and Pieskowa Skała. Additionally, the local fire station building houses a library, reflecting the diverse cultural offerings. This place combines a rich historical heritage with natural beauty and a vibrant local tradition.