Ecomuseum of Charcoal Burning in Radoszyce

THE TRADITION OF CHARCOAL BURNING – AN ATTRACTION IN THE BIESZCZADY

The history of charcoal burning has a long tradition in this part of Poland. Initially, meilers were used – stacks of wood covered with clay, soil, and turf. In the 1980s, with the increased demand for charcoal, a new method of burning was developed. Retorts, steel kilns, were created, shortening the burning time and producing a cleaner product.

These retorts, large steel kilns from which clouds of smoke rise during the burning process, are a characteristic element of the Bieszczady landscape. Currently, there are few places where this method of wood burning is still practiced. Modern technologies and imported goods have replaced this method.

A reconstruction of an old meiler has been recreated elsewhere. It can be seen at the Open-Air Charcoal Burning Museum. This Bieszczady attraction is located on the road from Stuposiany to Muczne.

REMEMBERING A DYING PROFESSION IN THE BIESZCZADY

Charcoal burning is part of the Bieszczady culture. Many people dedicated themselves to this now-vanishing craft. As the use of retorts slowly fades, so does the memory of the profession and its people. To prevent this, the "Na Wypale" Ecomuseum of Charcoal Burning was established. It is undoubtedly a unique and much-needed attraction in the Bieszczady, paying tribute to all who worked and still work in charcoal burning. It was initiated by a local social enterprise - the "Ramię w Ramię" Foundation over the Osława River.

The place is open to anyone interested in learning more about this dying profession. Visitors can see retorts, an old barrack, a historic car, and a photo gallery. Here, one can familiarize themselves with the tradition of charcoal burning. After all, the Bieszczady is much more than greenery and mountains.

The Ecomuseum in Radoszyce is an extraordinary attraction in the Bieszczady, allowing visitors to see firsthand how charcoal burning is done. A charcoal burner works on-site, operating the retorts and sharing insights about this challenging profession. Guided tours are available, explaining the stages of burning, the types of wood used, and why they cannot be mixed.

VISITING THIS BIESZCZADY TOURIST ATTRACTION

The Ecomuseum of Charcoal Burning in Radoszyce is open to tourists from May to the end of October. From June to September, it operates seven days a week, and in other months, only three days a week (Friday to Sunday). This Bieszczady attraction is closed during the winter months (November to April). Ticket prices are available on the website. The Ecomuseum is also a great attraction for children, welcoming school groups and offering event organization.

Additionally, on the premises of this Bieszczady attraction, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the local shop and locally produced charcoal. There is also a campsite, "Pod kopką," situated among wild nature, offering fresh air, a bonfire site, toilets, and phone charging facilities. For tourists seeking culinary experiences, the "Karpackie korytko" Grill Bar serves sausages, kebabs, and beer.

WHAT TO SEE IN THE BIESZCZADY?

This is a question many tourists ask before visiting this part of Podkarpacie. The internet and most guides suggest the Bieszczady Railway Drezyn, the Sanok Open-Air Museum, or the gondola over Solina. These are undoubtedly good suggestions, being the most famous attractions in the Bieszczady. However, anyone looking for attractions away from the crowds, showcasing the real Bieszczady, should visit the Museum in Radoszyce.

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Photo: Piotr Magdziarz