2. THE KRAKÓW GROUP /
GRUPA KRAKOWSKA

This region roughly corresponds to the present małopolskie voivodeship with the exception of the mountain areas. The traditional building style in this area is marked by wooden cottages with hipped, and later pitched, roof covered with straw. Whitening of walls on the outside is characteristic here. The interiors of the cottages were ornamented with rich paintings most often having flower motifs. Zalipie is the most famous town for this kind of ornamentation. This region is characteristic for its diversity in painting and costume. Pictures were painted on paper, canvas and glass. Pictures on glass can be found in the żywiecki district, for example in the area of Jeleśnia where the colours of blue and yellow are dominant. The folk costume is a peculiarity of the Kraków region thanks to its uniqueness and colours. The most characteristic element of the man's costume was kaftan – a long coat hanging to the knees (mainly navy blue, decorated with so called kutasy – tassels – in red, green and black), belt with brass elements, red four-cornered hat with peacock feathers and striped trousers. The most distinctive element of the woman's costume was the richly embroidered vest. The Kraków region is famous for painted chests with flower motifs often on a green background. The most beautiful chests were produced in Skawina, Morawica, Kaszów, Liszki, etc.