Czaganiec

Czaganiec (plural: Czagance) refers to a specific type of traditional, decorative rug or wall hanging originating in the Podhale region of Poland, the mountainous area at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. These textiles are characterized by their distinctive, stylized floral and geometric patterns, often featuring vibrant colors. Historically, Czagance were made from thick wool, dyed with natural pigments, and woven using simple looms. They served both practical purposes, providing warmth and insulation in the traditional wooden homes of the region, and aesthetic ones, adding visual interest and reflecting the cultural identity of the local Gorals (highlanders). The motifs used in Czagance often have symbolic meanings, relating to nature, folklore, and religious beliefs. Today, while some traditional Czagance are still produced, modern versions are also available, often made with synthetic materials and using machine-based techniques. The term "Czaganiec" can also sometimes broadly refer to any decorative woolen textile from the Podhale region with similar characteristics.