Discovering Nowy Targ: Unveiling the Charms of Lesser Poland's Enchanting Town

Exploring the Charming Town of Nowy Targ, Poland

In the southern part of Poland, where plains turn into hills and hills into mountains, lies the picturesque town of Nowy Targ. Known as the capital of Podhale, this charming destination is surrounded by mountains, hot springs, and beautiful landscapes, making it the perfect starting point for a mountain adventure.

If you have Polish roots or are interested in genealogy, Nowy Targ holds a special significance. Many Americans, like the author of this article, visit Poland to discover their family history. Genealogy allows us to honor our ancestors and preserve their memory. The first step in exploring your family's history is to check what you have at home – family archives, names, surnames, maiden names, and dates. Once you gather this information, you can use online databases to further your research. It's also essential to find your ancestral parish, where your ancestors' village was located.

Now, the question arises – are children of Polish immigrants in the United States truly Polish? According to the author, our heritage is connected to our parents and grandparents, as proven by scientists, history, and everything we see around us. Each person is linked to a specific culture or region of the world. Therefore, anyone who has emigrated from Poland but has roots in the country can undoubtedly consider themselves Polish, as this heritage is part of a long history.

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If you plan to visit Nowy Targ, there are several key points of interest that you should not miss. Start your journey at the regional museum, which provides a solid foundation for understanding the local history. The exhibitions allow you to witness firsthand how people lived here over the centuries.

One interesting practice in the early 19th century that can be observed from the exhibits is that families used to share their meals from one gigantic bowl. This communal dining practice, now embedded in folk art, sheds light on the customs of ordinary family life.

Another unexpected craft that thrived in Nowy Targ was hat-making. The process was simple but required skill. The hatmaker would start by shaping the hat on a larger form, gradually rolling it into the shape that would fit a person's head. Specific hats were made for different social groups, from peasants to the upper class and even Jewish residents of Nowy Targ.

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Historically, Nowy Targ was an important trading route, which is reflected in its name, meaning "New Market" in English. Products such as salt, coal, wine, and more were transported through this route. The merchants not only conducted business but also embellished the town.

Nowy Targ offers various interesting routes to explore, one of which leads to an unforgettable UNESCO World Heritage site. The author engaged in conversations with local residents and discovered that there was a notable difference in perspectives regarding this monument. For the author, it was a treasure for all of humanity, while for the locals, it was a unique but ordinary space where they gathered daily. Regardless of their differences, the monument served a higher purpose – it saved a village that would have been flooded by an artificial lake. Hence, the author highlights the connection between historical artifacts and the preservation of cultural heritage.

If you are interested in the history of railways, Nowy Targ has a railway museum worth visiting. The museum showcases various exhibitions, from steam locomotives to diesel and electric trains, snowplows, and cranes. It offers something for everyone, piquing the interest of history enthusiasts.

Nowy Targ is also centrally located, making it an ideal base for exploring some of the best outdoor recreational activities in the world. One such gem near the town is Szaflary, a village that was once overlooked but has now become a popular destination. Szaflary is known for its thermal mineral pools, which were previously only accessible across the border in Slovakia. The pools contain highly mineralized thermal water, sourced from a depth of 3000 meters. These waters are rich in potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and sulfur, offering a wide range of therapeutic and healing benefits.

Aside from its natural wonders and historical sites, Nowy Targ provides a unique experience for travelers, especially those from outside of Europe. It allows visitors to witness and experience firsthand the imagery of Europe that they have seen in media and historical books. The town offers a glimpse into the real culture and daily life of the region.

While many tourists often head straight to Zakopane, a popular and commercialized destination, the author recommends stopping by towns like Nowy Targ to truly immerse yourself in the life of the Polish highlanders (górale) in 2020.

As the author highlights the cultural and historical significance, as well as the natural beauty of Nowy Targ, it becomes clear that this charming town is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Poland.

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Discover the hidden gems of Nowy Targ! Embark on thrilling excursions to breathtaking mountain trails, visit charming local markets, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of this enchanting Polish town. Let the adventure begin!

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