The airport’s contribution to Kraków’s development
Balice Airport has been recognised as one of the most important infrastructure and economic institutions in Kraków and the entire Małopolska region. The “Cracoviae Merenti” medal is awarded by the City Council upon the recommendation of the Medal Committee in recognition of outstanding service to the city. The airport was honoured for its achievements and its significance for the development of Kraków and the region. As early as the late 19th century, one of the first airports on Polish soil was operating in Rakowice. Following the restoration of independence in 1918, Kraków Airport was the first to be taken over by the Polish authorities, becoming a key centre for the development of civil aviation.
“The achievements of John Paul II Kraków–Balice International Airport Ltd., its significance for the development of Kraków, the region and the country, as well as its lasting contribution to building a positive image of the Municipality of Kraków in Poland and worldwide, fully justify honouring the company with the bronze “Cracoviae Merenti” medal on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of its operations” – this is the justification given in the resolution awarding the “Cracoviae Merenti” bronze medal to Kraków Airport.
The International Cultural Centre has also had the pleasure of collaborating with Kraków International Airport. Among other things, the company sponsored the second edition of the ICC’s publication “Kraków: History and Art”. We offer our warmest congratulations on receiving the prestigious “Cracoviae Merenti” award!
The “Cracoviae Merenti” Medal – the city’s highest honour
The “Cracoviae Merenti” Medal is the city’s highest honour, alongside the title of honorary citizenship of the city of Kraków. It is awarded not only to individuals but also to organisations and institutions. Recipients have included the Museum of Kraków, the Academy of Fine Arts, the Wawel Royal Castle, and the Cracovia and Wisła sports clubs. The medal is awarded in three variants: gold, silver and bronze. The first recipient of the gold medal was John Paul II – since then, it has been awarded exclusively to institutions. To date, 7 gold medals, 36 silver medals (the first of which was awarded to Krzysztof Penderecki) and 44 bronze medals (the first of which was awarded to Kazimierz Fugiel) have been presented.
The decision to award the medal is made by the Kraków City Council, upon the recommendation of the Medal Committee, which comprises: the Mayor of Kraków, who chairs the committee; the Rector of the Jagiellonian University; and the Director of the National Museum in Kraków.
Photo: Piotr Wojnarowski (courtesy of the “Magical Kraków” Municipal Information Platform)