Ujsoly: Traditions and Historic Trails

• Ujsoły was probably founded in the 16th century by Wallachian settlers from the Balkans.
• The parish of Saint Joseph was established in 1913.
• The new historic trail begins in the center and heads towards Złatna.
• Multi-tiered fires were lit at the Wawrzyńcowych Hudy on August 6 and 7, 2022.

The history of Ujsoły’s origins is connected with Wallachian settlers. The village was probably founded in the 16th century by pastoral communities from the Balkans. Its foundation in the 16th century is considered probable.

The settlers established sheep and cattle grazing on the mountain pastures in Ujsoły and built kosory and szałasy there. Pastoralism and the construction of these structures are therefore part of the same historical context. For travelers interested in regional ways of life, this connection offers a tangible insight into the area’s pastoral history.

Another point in time is the Roman Catholic parish of Saint Joseph, established in 1913. Together with the probable founding in the 16th century, this creates a timeline from early settlement to ecclesiastical history. The village’s recorded histories can thus be viewed as separate chapters rather than combined into a single account of its origins.

The Wawrzyńcowych Hud tradition preserves knowledge, skills, memories, and community customs across generations. These include building the structures, preparing the fire, and lighting it ceremonially. The tradition therefore encompasses both practical knowledge about the structures and community rituals.

At the 44th edition of the Wawrzyńcowych Hudy in Ujsoły, multi-tiered fires were lit on August 6 and 7, 2022. This specific occasion illustrates the ceremonial aspect of the tradition; the passing down of knowledge extends beyond the moment the fires are lit and also includes construction, preparation, and customs.

A municipal project for 2026 includes workshops on building the Hud in Ujsoły, Glinka, Soblówka, and Złatna. They will teach about construction and symbolism, as well as the rituals involved in lighting tall fires. Those interested in cultural heritage will find not only historical context here but also the craft and community aspects of the tradition.

The new historic trail begins in the center of Ujsoły and heads towards Złatna. Guided historical walks can be organized along the trail.

The “Podmuńcolskie spacery” quest starts at the parking lot by the “Pod Muńcołem” amphitheater in Ujsoły, on ul. Bystra. It is intended for children and young people, families with children, and adults. This identifies its specific audience; the quest is also a separate offering from the historic trail towards Złatna.

The Ujsolski Park for Active Tourism and Recreation is also located in Ujsoły. The three points of interest can be distinguished by their focus: the Hud tradition brings together cultural heritage and community customs, the historic trail has a historical focus, and the quest has walks in its very name. The park is described as a place for active tourism and recreation.

Discover more destinations: Węgierska Górka, Korbielow, Pewel Ślemieńska, Wieprz, Radziechowy, Ślemień, Jeleśnia and Bierna.

When was the parish of Saint Joseph established?

The Roman Catholic parish of Saint Joseph in Ujsoły was established in 1913.

Where does the historic trail begin?

It begins in the center of Ujsoły and heads towards Złatna. Guided historical walks can be organized along the trail.

Who is the “Podmuńcolskie spacery” quest for?

It is intended for children and young people, families with children, and adults.

To the main travel overview: Żywiec.