Skawina

Skawina is a town in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, located on the Skawinka River, 15 kilometers southwest of Krakow. Settlement in the area dates back to 5000 BCE. In 1364, by the decision of King Casimir the Great, the town was formally established. The events of the 17th century are particularly interesting, when the town struggled with numerous challenges, such as cholera epidemics and Swedish invasions. In the 19th century, Skawina flourished due to industrial development, leading to the establishment of many workplaces. In the 20th century, the town became an important industrial center, with the Skawina Power Plant and an aluminum plant. Architecturally, it stands out with its historic urban layout, which includes the Parish Church of St. Simon and Jude, the 16th-century Renaissance manor in Korabniki, and the town hall. Skawina is also home to several religious sites, including Roman Catholic churches and the Chewra Thilim Synagogue, which was destroyed during World War II. Modern Skawina nurtures local culture—the Culture and Sports Center was established, hosting cultural events, including performances by regional folk groups, as well as the "IKA" Dance Theater. Skawinian folklore is rich in traditions, including original folk costumes and unique customs, such as the zapusty tradition, where residents dressed in various costumes go from house to house. In 2016, Skawina was listed among the most polluted cities in the EU, but thanks to environmental efforts, the situation has since improved. The town's international cooperation includes partnerships with cities in England, the Czech Republic, Germany, Slovakia, Italy, and Ukraine. Interestingly, Skawina remains one of the few places in Poland where Palm Sunday rituals have been preserved, along with the custom of communal fieldwork, known as "tłuki." Thus, Skawina is a place with a rich history, vibrant culture, and dynamic development, blending tradition with modernity.