The Małopolska Regional Conservator of Monuments refused to enter Krupówki Street in the register of monuments. This place is regarded as a symbol of Zakopane and was to be included in the highest form of protection due to its historical and cultural significance. The decision was met with disappointment by some residents and heritage protection circles. The conservator justified the refusal by the loss of the authentic character of this space and the numerous transformations that have destroyed its original layout and buildings.
Zakopane and the development of Krupówki
Zakopane grew from a small shepherd settlement located at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. In the 19th century, the village gained popularity as a holiday and art resort. A growing fascination with the culture of the Podhale region, the activities of various artists and the development of the Zakopane style, which was a synthesis of highland tradition with Swiss and eclectic influences, contributed to this. Krupówki became the focal point of city life. It is the main promenade, a place for meetings, trade and cultural events. Their architecture combines different eras and styles, from wooden tenements and villas from the early 20th century to contemporary buildings and shopping malls. In many parts, the old character of the place has been preserved, but in others it has been replaced by new, not always coherent buildings. Overall, the street gives the impression of great chaos, especially in high season.
Conservation protection not for Krupówki
In 2023, an administrative procedure was initiated to enter the historical urban layout of Krupówki into the register of monuments. The application was submitted by the municipal conservator of monuments, and the National Heritage Institute prepared an opinion on the cultural values of this space. The aim was to obtain a form of protection that would allow more effective regulation of new developments, advertising and changes in the appearance of facades. The street needs to limit phenomena perceived as detrimental to its image. Formal protection could stop the progressive loss of Krupówki’s unique atmosphere.
Krupówki altered too much
However, the Provincial Office for the Protection of Monuments considered that Krupówki had not sufficiently preserved its historical values. The justification pointed to numerous uncontrolled encroachments that have changed the proportions and character of the buildings. Many buildings no longer adhere to traditional forms, and retail and services have become the dominant function, which has reduced the former social and cultural diversity. Officials also argued that there are other forms of protection, such as the cultural park, provisions in local development plans and the municipal register of historic buildings. In their view, these tools provide sufficient control over changes to the space. However, the Zakopane authorities have announced that they will appeal the decision and are considering the introduction of a conservation zone in the local plan, which could partially replace the entry in the register.
History of Krupówki
The former Krupówki formed a coherent complex of mainly wooden buildings with distinct regional features. Highlander houses, villas and guesthouses were built in harmony with the landscape, preserving the proportions, ornaments and details characteristic of the Zakopane style. Unfortunately, the street space has been heavily transformed in recent decades. Larger commercial buildings with contemporary forms, often devoid of references to local tradition, have appeared. An example is the Krupówki 40 shopping centre, which was intended to refer to the regional architecture, but in the end is limited to superficial stylisation only. The expansion of commercial spaces, a large number of advertisements and densely placed shopping stalls have contributed to the visual chaos. Juxtaposed with old photographs, it is clear how much the scale and character of this part of the city has changed.
The future of Krupówki Street
The lack of an entry in the heritage register means that Krupówki will not receive the strongest form of legal protection. This limits the state’s ability to oversee investments and redevelopments affecting the image of the street. Despite this, existing forms of protection, such as the cultural park, planning records and the protection of individual buildings, provide some level of protection. However, the effectiveness of these tools will depend on the determination of local authorities, investors and residents themselves. The case of Krupówki has become the subject of a wider discussion about the boundaries between heritage preservation and the development of tourism and commercialism. This street, known to almost every Pole, has already crossed this dangerous boundary, depriving itself of the chance to be listed as a historic monument.
Source: tvn24.pl, propertydesign.pl
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