Holy Cross Province

Holy Cross – updated 18 January 2023.

The Holy Cross (Swietokrzyskie) region in Poland is a picturesque area located in the south-central part of the country. It is named after the Holy Cross Mountains, a range of low hills that run through the region. The region is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage.

Nature reserves

The Holy Cross Mountains are a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is home to several nature reserves, including the Holy Cross National Park, which is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life.

Łysa Góra

Łysa Góra at 595 m is the second highest mountain in the region and is known locally as Święty Krzyż (Mount Holy Cross). If you believe local folk legend, during Pagan times, witches practiced their dark arts on Mount Łysiec. The mountain is also home to The Sanctuary of The Holy Cross Wood Relic. Today, you can see remains of a 9th century stone rampart surrounding the top of the mountain in addition to the Benedictine monastery with its Relics of the Holy Cross Tree. The 1000-year-old monastery is managed by the Missionary Oblates.

Kielce

The region is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The city of Kielce, the capital of the region, is home to several historic buildings and monuments, including the Kielce Cathedral and the Baroque-style Bishop’s Palace. The city is also home to the Museum of Holy Cross Region, which showcases the region’s history and culture.

Traditional crafts

The Holy Cross region is also known for its traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. Visitors to the area can find a wide variety of handmade goods at local markets and shops. The region is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features traditional dishes such as pierogi (dumplings) and bigos (stew).

Industry and commerce

In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, the Holy Cross region is also an important center of industry and commerce. The region is home to several large manufacturing companies, including the Kielce Industrial Park, which is home to several leading companies in the automotive and electronics industries.

Cultural heritage

Despite its industrial development, the Holy Cross region remains a relatively undiscovered destination in Poland. Visitors to the area will find a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage that makes it a great destination for those looking to explore off the beaten path.

In conclusion, the Holy Cross region of Poland is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. The Holy Cross Mountains, the nature reserves, and the historic sites in the area are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, while the traditional crafts and delicious cuisine of the region are perfect for those looking to experience the local culture. The region’s industrial development also makes it an important center of commerce in Poland. It’s a destination that should not be missed for those who are interested in exploring Poland.

See the top 10 things to do in Kielce.

FAQ

Q: What is the Holy Cross (Swietokrzyskie) region in Poland known for?

A: The region is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. The Holy Cross Mountains, nature reserves, and historic sites in the area are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, while the traditional crafts and delicious cuisine of the region are popular among those interested in experiencing the local culture. The region is also an important center of industry and commerce in Poland.

Q: What are some popular things to do in the Holy Cross region?

A: Popular activities in the region include hiking in the Holy Cross Mountains, visiting nature reserves and historic sites, exploring traditional crafts and local cuisine, and visiting the Kielce Industrial Park to learn about the region’s industrial development.

Q: What are some popular traditional crafts in the Holy Cross region?

A: Traditional crafts in the region include pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. Visitors to the area can find a wide variety of handmade goods at local markets and shops.

Q: What are some popular dishes in the Holy Cross region?

A: Popular dishes in the region include pierogi (dumplings) and bigos (stew). The region is also known for its delicious cuisine and traditional dishes.

Q: How can I get to the Holy Cross region?

A: The region is located in south-central Poland. The main city of the region is Kielce, which can be reached by train or bus from other major cities in Poland. The region is also easily accessible by car and has good road connections.

Q: Are there any nature reserves in the Holy Cross region?

A: Yes, there are several nature reserves in the region, including the Holy Cross National Park which is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. The park is also home to several historic sites.