34. FKŻ

 

The Jewish Culture Festival in Krakow is once again promoting Małopolska

 

Małopolska, part of the historical region of Galicia, is the ancestral homeland of Jews from all over the world. Before the war, it was here that the Jewish heart of Poland beat strongest — and now, during the Jewish Culture Festival held annually in Krakow’s Kazimierz district, it is here that the Jewish heart of the world beats.

The most prominent Hasidic dynasties trace their roots back to Małopolska. This is where Jewish art, philosophy, and theology flourished. For centuries, Jews lived here, co-creating our region, shaping its culture, identity, and uniqueness — helping to build Poland’s multicultural heritage.

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That is why, as heirs to the heritage of Polish Jews, we are proud to be promoting Małopolska

 

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

The “Wizytówki Małopolski” is a project aimed at strengthening the sense of regional identity among residents, while also building a strong Małopolska brand through the visual and symbolic presence of the Małopolskie Voivodeship as a partner of the region’s most recognizable events. That is why I am pleased that the Jewish Culture Festival — for years the largest presentation of contemporary Jewish culture in the world — is a part of this initiative.

The festival’s rich program, which includes not only concerts but also workshops, lectures, and meetings, gathers thousands of guests each year in Krakow’s Kazimierz district. Additionally, this year sees the return of an event that remains, for many, a true symbol of the festival — the grand finale: Szalom.

I would like to express my gratitude to the organizers and all partners for their hard work and dedication in preparing such a diverse and inspiring cultural undertaking. To all participants of the 34th Jewish Culture Festival, I wish many unforgettable experiences, and to our visiting guests — a pleasant and memorable stay in Małopolska.

Łukasz Smółka
Marshal of the Małopolskie Voivodeship