The famous inhabitants of the Kłodzko Land are proof that in this extraordinary border land, where Czech, German and Polish influences have intertwined for centuries, there is extraordinary creative potential. This is the land that gave birth to and attracted outstanding figures – world-famous artists, scientists, thinkers and athletes who achieved the highest awards. Their stories are inextricably linked to the landscape of steep mountains, mysterious castles and charming towns.
As the hosts of “Gołąbek”, we are proud to live in a region with such a rich intellectual and artistic heritage. We want to share with you stories about people worth knowing. This guide is a tribute to their achievements and an invitation to discover the Kłodzko Land in their footsteps – from the Nobel Prize winner’s house in the Kłodzko Valley to the training routes of the Olympic champion.
Nobel Prize winner from Krajanów – Olga Tokarczuk
She is undoubtedly the most famous contemporary resident of the Kłodzko region and its greatest ambassador in the world. Olga Tokarczuk, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature for 2018, has been living and creating for years in the small village of Krajanów, located in the Suche Mountains, on the edge of the Kłodzko Valley.
Kotlina Kłodzko as Inspiration and Home
The writer has repeatedly emphasized how important this region is to her. Its landscape, multicultural history, secrets and border character became the background and inspiration for many of her works. It was here, in peace and quiet, with a view of the mountains, that fragments of her most important novels were written. Her monumental “The Books of Jacob” are partly set in Silesia, and in the novel “Day House, Night House” she masterfully reflected the genius loci (spirit of the place) of the Kłodzko Valley, weaving the dreams, legends and stories of its inhabitants. Olga Tokarczuk not only lives here, but actively participates in the life of the region, supporting local initiatives and organizing the “Góry Literatury” festival.
Masters of the Brush and Word – Giants of Art and Literature
Michael Willmann (1630-1706): “Silesian Rembrandt” and His Works in the Region
Although he was born in Königsberg, Michael Willmann, the most outstanding painter of the Silesian Baroque, spent most of his life in Silesia, and his works decorate many churches of the Kłodzko Region. His paintings, full of drama, expression and masterful play of chiaroscuro, can be admired, among others, in the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Kłodzko and in the famous Sanctuary in Wambierzyce. Discovering his works is a fascinating journey back in time to the era of the Counter-Reformation and the artistic flourishing of the region.
Gabriela and Monika Muskała: Acting and Directing Talent from Kłodzko
The contemporary pride of the region are the Muskała sisters, who were born and raised in Kłodzko.
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Gabriela Muskała is one of the most appreciated and versatile Polish theater and film actresses, known for her roles in films such as “My Daughters Cows” and “Fuga” (for which she also wrote the script).
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Monika Muskała is a renowned translator of German-language literature, director and playwright.
Their success is proof that the artistic soul of the region is still thriving today.
Karl von Holtei (1798-1880): German Poet in Love with Kłodzko
He is a key figure for understanding the German cultural heritage of the Kłodzko Land (Glatzer Ländchen). This writer, poet and actor, popular in the 19th century, although born in Wrocław, spent part of his life in Kłodzko, and this region often appeared in his works. His poem “Glatz, die Feste” (Kłodzko, the fortress) is a literary monument to the city and its powerful fortification.
Titans of Sport – Pride of the Region on World Arenas
Tadeusz Mytnik: Olympic Silver Medalist from Nowa Ruda
Born in Nowa RudaTadeusz Mytnik is a legend of Polish cycling. He was a key member of the legendary road team that won a silver medal at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. He was also a two-time world champion in the same competition (1973, 1975). His career is a symbol of determination and proof that the mountainous, demanding areas of the Kłodzko Region are an ideal training ground for future champions.
In the Footsteps of Great People – “Gołąbek” as a Base Camp
Discovering the Kłodzko Land in the footsteps of its outstanding inhabitants is a fascinating idea for original tourism. By staying at “Gołąbek” in Stronie Śląskie, you are at an ideal starting point. Our facility is an excellent base to go on a trip to Olga Tokarczuk’s house in Krajanów, visit churches with paintings by Michael Willmann, visit the hometown of the Muskała sisters, Kłodzko, or go to Nowa Ruda to feel the sporting spirit of Tadeusz Mytnik.
The history of the Kłodzko Land is not only dates and battles, but above all, people. We invite you to learn about their extraordinary stories.
