Pottery traditions in Medynia Głogowska

The economic specialisations of many regions and specific villages usually were linked to the locally available resources. In the case of Medyna Głogowska this was clay with characteristics valuable for pottery. As a result of the long tradition, in the early 20th century there were still about 120 pottery workshops making pots, bowls and other vessels used in households.

Over time, demand for pottery products decreased. After World War II, many workshops would only make artistic products, to be sold at craft fairs or in Cepelia shops, operating since 1949, and selling works of various crafts.

The revival of traditional pottery in Medynia Głogowska started in 2001 when the Pottery Croft was created. It comprises a 19th century cottage and barn, the latter converted into a pottery workshop. There is also a traditional pottery kiln whose design was based on the kiln owned Stefan Głowiak, a local artist and master of pottery.

The Croft presents a large collection of ceramic products. Besides the most typical items such as pots, jugs, bowls and plant pots, there are also clay figurines made by local artists, including the aforementioned Stefan Głowiak and Władysława Prucnal.

The route was delineated in 2004 and leads to places connected with pottery, which are located within the beautiful natural scenery of Medynia Głogowska. A truly unique landmark along the route is the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with its ceramic mosaics, made by local artists, and embellishing the presbytery, pulpit and gallery. Along the side aisles you can see the Stations of the Cross, whereas the mosaic on the wall holding the altar depicts the Annunciation, the Visitation of St. Elizabeth and the Nativity of Jesus. Near the tabernacle you can see figurines of a folk band. The latter work was made by Władysława Prucnal. The gallery of her sculptures is a separate attraction along the "Pottery Trail".

Władysława Prucnal also created the figure in the Park of Our Lady of Berries. The wooden shrine located there contains the figure of the Virgin Mary with a jug filled with blueberries, a fruit much appreciated by the local people. Old tales say that blueberries used to protect the poorest people from hunger.

To relax after the fascinating tour you should take a break at the Potters’ Inn. On the menu you will find dishes prepared according to traditional recipes. These include, for example, potatoes with onions and pork belly baked, under a cover of turf, on a fire stove. You will definitely want to try this unusual dish.

The heritage of Medynia was successfully revived when the Pottery Croft was created, however the public had slightly different expectations. Some people did not only want to buy or see the pottery products, but they also wanted to participate in all the stages of pottery production. Unfortunately, the Croft could only operate in the warm months, so it was impossible to expand the catalogue of options for visitors.

It was necessary to create a place which would contribute to socioeconomic changes in the old pottery district, by using its cultural heritage. In connection with this, the Municipality of Czarna decided to provide support for the restoration of the Pottery Croft and the nearby road.  

The related works took two years and on 1 October 2021, the Medynia Pottery Centre was launched as an independent cultural institution. It operates throughout the year. Both old and young potters, living in this area, work in the Centre, which also hosts various events, fairs, workshops and lectures. There is also a shop with local pottery and that also contributes to the growth of other pottery workshops in the area.

Read more about Medynia Pottery Centre.