Łowicz, where I was born. Poland, Europe

History The name of town can be traced back to hunters (łowcy), who originally inhabited the site (first inhabitants about 4ooo B.C. Firstly it was a medieval settlement. Łowicz was granted civic rights before 1298. Around 1355 a wooden fort was replaced with a Gothic castle Łowicz 1616

FOLKLOR Łowicz is famous for its paper cut-outs, which are real glittering masterpieces. They can decorate both traditional and modern rooms but they are used mainly in rustic cabins. In the past, the cut-outs were made with shears for sheep shearing. They are all handmade so in the fact we can’t find two that are the same ones There were three main shapes formed: KODRY, GWIOZDY, TASIEMKI. ART

KODRY- Rectangular cut-outs containing usually a floral pattern, typical countryside scenes as well as animals. GWIOZDY- Usually floral, animal and anthropomorphic patterns. Nowadeys there are two kinds of „gwioadas” for sale.

Tasiemki- They are cut-outs made from two peperendicular stripes with the same decoration. People also used to decorate their houses: Pająki (spiders)- They were hung on the ceiling (in the centre) Flowers- They were mostly used to decorate altars, found in a festive room. Standing bouquets were always flat.

Buildings It was wooden architecture that dominated in Łowicz region till the first half of this century. The cottage were built of beams joined in the corners. There were several separate rooms into cottage. Only some of farm buildings were made of stones (later bricks and stones)

Inside a house

Folk costumes

This is a colorful region. Its folklor too. I grew up here. I should love colors and I really love them