Szczyrzyc

Szczyrzyc is a village in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, Limanowa County, known primarily for its rich cultural and natural heritage. Since 1926, the regional song and dance ensemble "Szczyrzycanie" has been active in the village, and the annual folk song festival highlights the importance of folk culture. Szczyrzyc is home to a former Creative Work House of the Polish Academy of Science, donated by the Konieczny family. Geographically, Szczyrzyc is situated in the Stradomka River valley, near the Beskid Wyspowy Mountains and the Wiśnickie Foothills, giving the area a mountainous climate and rich biodiversity, including fir-beech forests and numerous protected plant species. The village features a Cistercian monastery complex with the beautiful Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, one of the most important architectural monuments in the region, as well as a World War I military cemetery. The history of Szczyrzyc dates back to 1416, when it was granted town rights, which were revoked before 1499. Historical significance is underscored by events such as the invasion of the monastery by the Tatars in 1259 and a devastating fire that destroyed the monastery in 1765. After World War II, the abbey was awarded the Virtuti Militari order in recognition of its merits. Szczyrzyc was also the site of tragic events during World War II, including a pacification operation in 1939. Also worth mentioning is the Cistercian brewery, which produced beer from 1628 until 1997, with its traditions now being revived by the Marysia microbrewery. Szczyrzyc is a tourist destination, with numerous trails leading to nearby peaks, making it an attractive spot for nature lovers. The veneration of the miraculous image of Our Lady of Szczyrzyc is also notable; its coronation in 1984 drew thousands of pilgrims. With its rich culture, history, and unique natural assets, Szczyrzyc attracts both tourists and those seeking to explore local traditions and history.