Another Easter custom is the tradition of decorating eggs. The oldest Polish Easter egg comes from the 10th century. Interestingly, it was made in a technique very much like those used today.

Decorating Easter eggs has become an element of folk culture, with distinct regional differences. Traditionally, before they are dyed the eggs are painted over (using a funnel-like tool) with a pattern in molten wax, which, when dry, will not adsorb the dye and is later scraped away to leave a traced decoration on the painted egg. In some regions, white bulrush cores and coloured wool or miniature paper cut-outs are glued to the egg shell. A Pomeranian variety is an egg in one colour only, obtained by using natural dyes from leaves, tree bark, onion scales, cones, mallow flowers, camomile, reed, nut shells, nettle leaves, larch needles and many other plants. In Silesia, dyed eggs are decorated with elaborate patterns scraped off the dyed shell with a sharp stylus.

As tradition requires, the blessed food products are eaten at a ceremonial breakfast after the Resurrection Mass on Easter Sunday. The whole family sits down to a table lavishly laid with hams, sausages, pates, roulades, roast pork loins, a variety of poultry dishes, eggs, pound cakes, round wheat cakes, cheesecakes, etc., etc.

Easter Monday, is a day on which boys sprinkle girls with water. The original meaning of this ancient custom, which remains extremely popular today, has faded into oblivion. Perhaps it was a rite of purification to ensure fertility. In many places not only women were sprinkled, but the earth and cows as well – for better crops and more milk.

 

If you are planning a visit to Poland, check these useful links:

- hotels: www.hotel-in-poland.eu, www.polish-hotel.eu
- database of all kinds of objects, from agrotourism to hotels and inns: www.relax.pl
- where to go, what to see…: www.polish-holiday.eu

- some beautiful places in Poland: Sianow (www.sianow.eu), Bielkowo (www.bielkowo.eu)
- tips for travelers: Tips (www.travel-tips.eu), Stories (www.travel-stories.eu), Guide Books (www.guide-books.eu)

 

Other interesting websites: