Scholarly record

THEMATIC AREAS IN THE POLISH COUNTRYSIDE AND THEIR ROLE IN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

A. Gorka

Abstract

The article defines the phenomenon of space thematisation with regards to rural areas in Poland. The typology of thematic spaces and criteria of their comparative description have been proposed. Thematic villages, home gardens, amusement parks and housing estates have been distinguished. They have been compared in terms of spatial availability, the degree of user participation and the commercial vs. non-commercial creation purpose. The indicated factors were considered decisive for the sustainability of the thematic project in public space and thus for the degree of its participation in local development. The conclusions indicate poor use of the potential resulting from the material resources of the rural, cultural heritage in the process of thematisation. This translates into high variability and lability of thematic projects, which means their limited impact on improving the quality of life. The significance of the features of local architecture and native greenery was emphasized as visual differentiators for building a permanent image of the town, the identity of its inhabitants and the rural economy. The conclusion has been based on participatory observation, literature review and internet query.

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