Tymbark

The Tymbark Commune, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, within the Limanowa County, covers an area of 32.7 km². It lies within the watershed of the Łososinka and Słopniczanka streams, which are part of the left-bank tributary system of the Dunajec River. The terrain of the commune is mountainous, with slopes reaching inclines of several dozen degrees, and the soils are largely difficult to cultivate, which has influenced the development of local infrastructure and community. The commune operates three kindergartens, four primary schools, and one secondary school, highlighting the significant emphasis placed on education in this region. Tymbark maintains rich partnership ties, collaborating with towns such as Whaley Bridge in England, Brachstedt in Germany, and Murça in Portugal, fostering cultural exchange. In terms of tourism, the commune's picturesque landscapes attract hiking enthusiasts, offering a range of interesting sites. In the center of Tymbark, visitors can admire historic architecture, including the parish church dating back to 1824, which houses valuable artworks such as a painting by Ferdynand Olesiński and a stone baptismal font from 1541. The commune also features historic chapels, a military cemetery from World War I, and a parish cemetery with unique tombstones. Another notable site is the disused mill in Podłopień from the 1830s, along with remnants of a manor-park complex. Tymbark Commune is not only a place rich in history but also one where tradition blends with modernity, and local communities actively preserve their heritage. An interesting fact is that couples in love can visit the Kapliczka na Górach (Chapel in the Mountains), founded in 1826, reflecting the strong connection between residents and their cultural environment. Demographically, the commune had a population of 6,192 in 2004, illustrating a small yet dynamic community.