About Lublin
The Lublin Province
The Lublin Voivodeship (also known as Lublin Province) is placed, in eastern Poland. The province is named after its largest city and regional capital, Lublin, and its territory is made of three historical lands. Western part of the voivodeship, with Lublin itself, belongs to Lesser Poland, eastern part belongs to Red Ruthenia, and northeast belongs to Polesie. The province's population as of 2006 was 2,175,251. It covers an area of 25,155 square kilometers.
The region of Lublin is one of the most beautiful and environmental friendly regions In Europe. The area is still unknown among foreign and can surprise visitors with interesting places and view to discover. The region is known for its untouched woods, dales, lakes and mysterious swamps. The Lublin Province can show the elsewhere lost wild nature of Europe.
The province and its capital are recognized for the specific culture and bond to traditional values and habits. As a territory between the east and west of Europe the province was always a melting pot of nations, cultures and an important transport rout. Apart from the city of Lublin there are other important spots on the “must see” map. Towns like Zamość, Puławy, Kazimierz and Nałęczów are well know for their tourist attractions, unequal climate and tradition and possibilities for collecting extraordinary memories.
Lublin
Lublin is one of the largest cities in Poland. It is situated in the center of the Lublin Province in the east of the country and is the capital of Lublin Voivodeship with a population of over 350 thousand people. Recently Lublin has joined the group of Polish cities-candidates for the title of European Capital of Culture, as the only city from the eastern half of Poland.
Lublin is not only the biggest City in eastern Poland, but also the most important culture center in this part of Europe. Since accession of Poland into the EU, Lublin is called "The Gate to the East", a place which connects the EU with eastern partners. Lots of important international events had happened here, involving Ukrainian, Lithuanian, Russian and Belorussian artists, researchers and politics. A great example for the cross-influence of nations and cultures are frescos at the Holy Trinity Chapel in Lublin are mixture of West Catholic motives with east Russian-Byzantine style. Also the origin of Lublin is connected with the bond between different streams of culture and tradition. Lublin is a city which emerged from the process of cultures, nations and religions coexistence. During the period of its greatness in the XV and XVI century it was a true symbol of multicultural Europe where east and south Slaves, Jews, Germans, Italians and French lived among the Polish citizens of Lublin. All the nationalities contributed to the richness and culture of the city and helped establish its unique mosaic. Lublin is a city which symbolizes the European idea of integration, universal heritage of democracy and a place to symbolize tolerance and the dialogue between the cultures. Lublin is a unique place where the cultures and religions meet. It is the perfect place of cooperation for European artists and businessman. Lublin is a city open for initiatives and ideas. The city is a place where unique activities take place. Lublin means the experience of hundreds of years of rich history and cultural heritage which constitutes endless source of inspiration for new generations. Our view of culture is not only connected to modern museums and enormous festivals, but also to people and their aspirations and the desire for development.
Also the architecture of the city is worth recognition. Lublin is called by tourists "little Krakow", for its old town structure and look – especially the historic and unique Old Town. Catering to students, who account for 35% of the population, the city offers a vibrant music and nightclub scene. The city has as much live and energy at night as during the day. Lublin has many theatres, philharmonic orchestras and museums. Old buildings, even ruins, creates magic and unique atmosphere of the city.
Lublin as mentioned is a city of students. It is one of the most important educational centers in this part of Europe. There are six schools of higher education, including Maria Curie-Sklodowska University (UMCS), John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL), Medical University of Lublin, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Politechnika Lubelska–Technical University in Lublin. Lublin also hosts a number of private higher education establishments. The Polish Government has plans to establish a new University in Lublin in cooperation with the Ukraine Government, which promises to be one of the most innovative international ventures of recent years in whole Europe - The Polish-Ukrainian Academy. The new institution will support multicultural exchange, and will highlight Polish and Ukrainian heritage and history. It promises to be a milestone in the rapprochement between Poland and Ukraine, and between Ukraine and the European Union. Lublin has the highest rate of foreign students in Poland. The universities are a platform for the exchange of knowledge, skills and innovations across land and see borders. The students and universities contribute to the rich life of the city, shape its culture and provide a continuing stream of new ideas and energy for the city.
As a “Gate to the East” Lublin has always been an important transport rout for wares and people. As the most important station between countries of east and west Lublin is a suitable place for economic activities and initiatives. The developing transport system in the region includes airports, motorways and railways, provides solid foundation for coordinating international business relations.
The prices of land and investing costs are lower than in other regions in Europe and western Poland. It is the primary reason for numerous investments in the region. The Lublin area is one of main beneficiaries of the EU development funds- every fifth Euro will be spent in Poland, a large portion of it in the Lublin Province. This sum will be an enormous boost for the infrastructure and economy of the area.
In September 2007, the Prime Minister signed a bill creating a special economic investment zone in Lublin that offers tax incentives. It is part of “Park Mielec” – the European Economic Development area. At least 13 large companies had declared their wish to invest here including Carefaur, Comarch, Safo, Asseco, Aliplast, Herbapol and Perła Browary Lubelskie. At the same time the energy giant Polska Grupa Energetyczna, which will build Poland's first nuclear power station, is to have its main offices in Lublin.
Lublin will take an active part in the upcoming EURO 2012 championships, with several preliminary matches being held in the city. This will bring associated investment in infrastructure.
The cultural strength and diversity of the city, its intellectual and economic potential open a chance for a wide scope of cooperation with other regions and cities in the world. Lublin is a place with well established links to foreign partners and experience in international relations. For either cultural, political or business reasons, Lublin and the surrounding province is a compulsory destination which will surly not disappoint.
