Podkarpacie

Podkarpacie, also known as the Subcarpathian Region, is a geographic and cultural region in the south-eastern part of Poland. It largely corresponds to the Subcarpathian Voivodeship (województwo podkarpackie), with Rzeszów as its capital and largest city. The name reflects its location to the south of the Carpathian Mountains.

Geography and nature: The area lies in the Carpathian foothills and mountains, including the Bieszczady and the Low Beskids, and is carved by rivers such as the San and Wisłok. The region includes national and landscape parks, notably Bieszczady National Park and Magurski National Park, and features varied terrain from forested highlands to river valleys.

History and administration: The modern voivodeship was shaped in 1999 from several former units. It borders Slovakia to the south and Ukraine to the east. Historic towns such as Przemyśl, Krosno and Sanok reflect a medieval and early modern heritage, with fortifications and historic centers that attract visitors.

Economy and infrastructure: The economy is diverse, with manufacturing, services, and agriculture. A notable aspect is the presence of aviation and defense industries, alongside growing IT and research capacity in the regional cities. Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport serves the region, contributing to transport and economy.

Culture and tourism: The region offers nature tourism in the Carpathians, including hiking and outdoor activities in the Bieszczady. Cultural sites include the Open-Air Museum in Sanok and historic towns with preserved architecture and wooden churches. The area has a rich folk heritage associated with the Lemko and other Carpathian cultural groups.