Nowy Sacz

Nowy Sącz is a historic city located in southern Poland, nestled in the picturesque Beskid Mountains. It’s known for its charming Old Town Square, a rich history dating back to the 13th century, and the Sądecki Ethnographic Park – an impressive open-air museum showcasing traditional regional architecture and culture. The city serves as an important cultural and economic hub for the surrounding Sądecczyzna region and is a popular gateway for exploring the nearby mountains.

Main Market Square (Rynek)

The heart of Nowy Sącz, the Main Market Square is one of the largest medieval squares in Poland. It’s surrounded by beautifully restored historic townhouses, many of which house cafes, restaurants, and shops. It’s a lively hub, perfect for a stroll, enjoying a coffee, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

Royal Castle Ruins (Ruiny Zamku Królewskiego)

Perched on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Dunajec and Kamienica rivers, these are the remains of a 14th-century castle built by King Casimir the Great. Though mostly in ruins after its destruction during the Swedish Deluge, the remaining fragments of walls and a tower still offer a glimpse into its past strategic importance.

Sadecki Ethnographic Park (Sądecki Park Etnograficzny / Skansen)

One of Poland’s most impressive open-air museums (skansens), located just outside the city center. It showcases traditional wooden architecture and the unique folk culture of various ethnic groups inhabiting the Sądecczyzna region, including Gorals, Lemkos, and Sądecczyzna Highlanders. You can walk through recreated villages with authentic houses, churches, schools, and farm buildings, complete with original furnishings and tools.

St. Margaret’s Basilica (Bazylika Kolegiacka św. Małgorzaty)

The oldest and most important church in Nowy Sącz, a magnificent Gothic basilica dating back to the 13th century. It has undergone various transformations over the centuries but retains its powerful historical character.

Museum of Nowy Sacz (Muzeum Okręgowe w Nowym Sączu)

This regional museum is spread across several locations in the city, each focusing on a different aspect of Sądecczyzna’s heritage. The main branch often covers the city’s history, while others might focus on art, ethnography, or specific historical periods.

Old Synagogue (Stara Synagoga)

Built in the 18th century, this historic synagogue is a testament to Nowy Sącz’s once thriving Jewish community. It survived World War II, unlike many others, and now serves as an art gallery and cultural center, maintaining its historical significance while adapting to contemporary use.

St. Roch’s Wooden Church (Kościół św. Rocha)

Located a bit further from the main center, this charming wooden church is part of the Małopolska Wooden Architecture Route. It’s a beautiful example of traditional wooden sacral architecture, typical of the region.