Walloon Stone

The Walloon Stone, also known as Mannstein, is a group of granite rocks located in the Karkonosze Foothills in the village of Przesieka, Lower Silesian Voivodeship, Poland. These rock formations, standing over 2 meters tall, are situated at the foot of Płonik Hill, and their distinctive shape resembles a human silhouette, which influenced the rock's German name. On the southern side of one of the rocks, there are two connected weathering pits, around which legends have emerged. They were once considered to be handprints, linked to the Walloon tradition, particularly the search for gold and precious stones by Walloons in the 15th and 16th centuries. Although these depressions may have been the result of natural forces, their mystical character is associated with the rituals and ceremonies of ancient prospectors. Next to the pits, an engraved Latin cross can be found, indicating the humanistic and religious connections of this site. In the 15th century, the Walloon Stone was described in the Walloon Books as an important landmark, highlighting its historical significance. The area around the rock is accessible to tourists via several trails leading in various directions, including a green trail connecting Karpacz with Borowice and a black trail leading from Upper Sosnówka to Sobieszów. The presence of the Walloon Stone on popular hiking routes makes it an attractive destination for nature, history, and culture enthusiasts of the region.