The History of Zakopane
The Unique History of Zakopane: Why This Mountain Town Stands Out
Zakopane is not just another tourist destination in Poland—it's a place with a rich history, a distinct culture, and a reputation as the "Winter Capital of Poland." Discover why Zakopane is so special and how its story has shaped its unique charm.
Early Beginnings: From Shepherds to Settlement
Zakopane’s roots go back about 400 years, making it a relatively young town by European standards. It began as a small settlement of farmers and shepherds at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries. According to local legend, a man named Gąsienica and his sons Paweł and Jędrzej were among the first to settle here, building a mill and starting a community in the shadow of the Tatra Mountains.
For many years, Zakopane remained a remote and quiet village, tucked away from the world.
The Industrial Spark: Kuźnice and the Growth of Tourism
The 18th century brought change. Steelworks were built in nearby Kuźnice, processing iron ore mined in the Tatras. The manor house in Kuźnice became a meeting place for visitors and mountain climbers, who soon discovered the beauty of Zakopane’s sunny valley.
By the 19th century, Zakopane was gaining fame as a tourist resort and health spa. The first parish was set up in 1845, and local priest Józef Stolarczyk encouraged highlanders to rent rooms to holidaymakers. This sparked a building boom, with homes and guesthouses springing up to meet growing demand.
Zakopane’s Golden Era: Railways, Hotels, and the Tatra Society
The arrival of the railway in 1899 transformed Zakopane. The new line connected Chabówka and Zakopane, making the town accessible to visitors from across Poland and beyond. The first hotel, Pod Giewontem, opened in 1885, and the town quickly became a favorite destination for artists, writers, and scientists.
Key figures like Dr. Tytus Chałubiński and the Tatra Society (founded in 1872) played a major role in promoting Zakopane as a center for mountain tourism and health. Dr. Chałubiński is often called the "discoverer" and "king of the Tatras." In 1886, Zakopane was officially recognized as a health resort, and it gained municipal rights in 1935.
A Place of Culture and Spirituality
Zakopane has always been more than just a resort. It’s a cradle of Polish highlander (Góral) culture, known for its wooden architecture, folk music, and vibrant traditions. The town inspired generations of artists and writers, and its unique “Zakopane Style” of architecture can be seen in buildings throughout the region.
The late Pope John Paul II had a deep connection to Zakopane. He spent much of his youth hiking and skiing in the Tatras, and even as Kraków’s Archbishop, he returned often. His favorite spots included the Jaszczurówka chapel and the Księżówka retreat house.
Why Zakopane Is So Special Today
Gateway to the Tatras: Zakopane sits at the foot of Poland’s highest mountains, making it the perfect base for hiking, skiing, and exploring Tatra National Park.
Rich Culture: The town is famous for its highlander traditions, wooden villas, and lively festivals.
Health and Wellness: Since the 19th century, Zakopane has been a renowned spa and health resort.
Accessibility: The railway and modern roads make Zakopane easy to reach for millions of visitors each year.
Spiritual Significance: The town’s connection to John Paul II adds a layer of meaning for many Polish and international visitors.
Zakopane by the Numbers
Founded: Early 1600s
Municipal Rights: 1935
Elevation: 800–1,000 meters above sea level
Population: Approx. 27,000
Annual Visitors: Over 2.5 million
Conclusion
Zakopane’s history is a story of transformation—from a quiet mountain village to a vibrant hub for tourism, culture, and adventure. Its unique blend of natural beauty, tradition, and accessibility continues to attract visitors from around the world. Whether you come for the mountains, the culture, or the spirit of the place, Zakopane offers an experience unlike any other in Poland.
Plan your visit and discover why Zakopane is truly something special.
Sources
[1] History of Zakopane https://web.archive.org/web/20150928233224/http:/www.zakopane.pl/en/tourism/history-of-zakopane
[2] Zakopane https://web.archive.org/web/20130603133249/http:/www.sztetl.org.pl/en/city/zakopane/
[3] Zakopane: A Deep Dive into Its History and Rich Traditions https://www.mojezakopane.com/en/zakopane-a-deep-dive-into-its-history-and-rich-traditions/
[4] Every Picture Tells a Story | U-M LSA Copernicus Center for Polish Studies https://ii.umich.edu/content/ii-directory/polish/en/news-events/news/search-news/every-picture-tells-a-story.html
[5] Republic of Zakopane - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_of_Zakopane
