Visiting Zalipie: Poland’s Enchanting Painted Village
Updated January 2026
Zalipie, a tiny rural village (~750 residents) in Lesser Poland (~90 km east of Kraków), is famous for its vibrant floral folk paintings. Women decorate homes, barns, wells, fences, and even churches with colorful flower motifs—a tradition dating to the late 19th century when paintings covered soot from wood stoves. Today, it’s a living open-air gallery.
Malowana Chata Festival
Since 1948, Zalipie hosts the Malowana Chata (“Painted Cottage”) competition—Poland’s longest-running folk art event. Villagers repaint homes each spring; judges evaluate during the weekend after Corpus Christi (movable feast, usually late May/early June), with winners announced Sunday followed by a festive picnic. In 2026, expect mid-June—check local sites for exact dates.
Top Spots to Visit
- Dom Malarek (Painter’s House): Cultural center with exhibits on traditions, workshops, and souvenirs. Free entry; open year-round (summer longer hours).
- Felicja Curyłowa’s Farmhouse: Preserved home of the tradition’s star painter (1904–1974)—every surface blooms with flowers, even interiors. Entry ~12 PLN; open Tue–Sun (hours vary seasonally).
- St. Joseph’s Church: Floral motifs inside and out.
- Wander freely: ~20–30 painted private homes (respect privacy).
Getting There from Kraków
- By Car (Easiest): ~1.5–2 hours via A4/E40 (~90 km). Parking available.
- Public Transport: Train Kraków Główny → Tarnów (~1–1.5 hours, ~30–50 PLN), then bus/taxi to Zalipie (~40 min). Schedules limited—plan a full day.
- Tours: Guided day trips from Kraków (~€50–100/person) handle logistics.
Quiet, magical escape—best in June for fresh paintings. Questions? Comment below!