29.12.2024

Crafts in the Karkonosze Mountains – 6 attractions to visit

The Karkonosze Mountains is a region with a rich craftsmanship history, where tradition meets the unique beauty of nature. By embarking on a tour following local craftsmen, one can discover fascinating places showcasing the skill and passion of former masters. We have created a list of six of the most interesting attractions worth visiting around the Pakoszów Palace related to the traditional crafts of the Karkonosze. Below you will also find a map with marked points and a suggested route to explore local crafts in the Karkonosze Mountains.


1. Crafts in the Karkonosze Mountains - Piechowice - Crystal Glassworks "Julia"

Crystal Glassworks "Julia" is a true gem among craft attractions. Established in the 19th century, it still produces high-quality crystals that reach customers all over the world. Visitors can see the live glass-making process – from blowing to shaping to precise engraving. At the end of the visit, it is worth stopping by the shop to purchase original items as souvenirs.


2. Szklarska Poręba – Home of Carl and Gerhart Hauptmann

This historic Home of Carl and Gerhart Hauptmann is a museum dedicated to the life and works of the Hauptmann brothers – writers who played an essential role in the local culture. The exhibition also sheds light on the history of artistic glass and traditional craftsmanship of the region. This is a place where literature, art, and craftsmanship intertwine into one inspiring story.


3. Karpacz – Karkonosze Museum of Glass and Ceramics

In Karpacz, in the heart of the Karkonosze Mountains, there is a museum dedicated to local glass and ceramic traditions. The exhibits showcase not only finished products but also the tools and techniques used by former craftsmen. Interactive displays allow visitors to try their hand at creating simple items, making the visit particularly appealing for families with children.


4. Juna Earth Museum – Walonian Guardhouse in Szklarska Poręba

The Juna Museum is a unique place that brings the history of Walonian treasure seekers and their influence on the region's development closer to visitors. Visitors can see the tools and techniques used by former miners and learn about the legends associated with mineral hunting. The Walonian guardhouse is also a place for workshops where one can try their hand at gem processing.


5. Weaving Museum in Kamienna Góra

The Weaving Museum transports visitors into the world of historic weaving workshops. It showcases a rich collection of fabrics, tools, and machines that were used to produce materials in the region. The visit is enriched with interactive presentations and the opportunity to participate in weaving workshops, making it an unforgettable experience.


6. Karkonosze Museum in Jelenia Góra - crafts in the Karkonosze Mountains

This is one of the most important museums in the region, housing a rich collection of artistic and utilitarian glass. The exhibitions present various styles and techniques of glass decoration, and they also shed light on the history of craftsmanship in the Karkonosze Mountains. Special attention should be paid to the permanent exhibition of glass in the Art Nouveau style, which fascinates with its beauty and craftsmanship.


Crafts in the Karkonosze Mountains - in the footsteps of Karkonosze craftsmen

A trip in the footsteps of craftsmen in the Karkonosze Mountains is not only an opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of the region but also a chance to experience firsthand how the products that have delighted for centuries in their beauty and functionality were made. Each of these places offers unique experiences that will remain in memory for a long time.



Crafts in the Karkonosze Mountains - suggested route and addresses of places:

Proposed route following the Karkonosze craftsmen:

  1. Start: Pakoszów Palace (Piechowice)

    • Address: ul. Zamkowa 3, 58-573 Piechowice

  2. Crystal Glassworks "Julia" in Piechowice

    • Address: ul. Kryształowa 73, 58-573 Piechowice

    • Distance from Pakoszów Palace: 2 km (about 5 minutes drive)

  3. Home of Carl and Gerhart Hauptmann in Szklarska Poręba

    • Address: ul. 11 Listopada 23, 58-580 Szklarska Poręba

    • Distance from the "Julia" Glassworks: 7 km (about 10 minutes drive)

  4. Juna Earth Museum – Walonian Guardhouse in Szklarska Poręba

    • Address: ul. Jeleniogórska 9, 58-580 Szklarska Poręba

    • Distance from the Hauptmanns' House: 2 km (about 5 minutes drive)

  5. Karkonosze Museum of Glass and Ceramics in Karpacz

    • Address: ul. Karkonoska 5, 58-540 Karpacz

    • Distance from the Walonian Guardhouse: 25 km (about 35 minutes drive)

  6. Weaving Museum in Kamienna Góra

    • Address: Pl. Wolności 11, 58-400 Kamienna Góra

    • Distance from the Karpacz Museum: 28 km (about 40 minutes drive)

  7. Karkonosze Museum in Jelenia Góra

    • Address: ul. Jana Matejki 28, 58-500 Jelenia Góra

    • Distance from the Weaving Museum: 35 km (about 45 minutes drive)

  8. Return: Pakoszów Palace

    • Distance from the Karkonosze Museum: 13 km (about 20 minutes drive)


Total length of the route:

About 112 km
Travel time (without sightseeing): About 3 hours

https://maps.app.goo.gl/hqMvmqACTiFK9fKa8

Remember to check the opening hours of each location before your planned visit.