Meeting: “Carpathia” [FILM]

On January 15, we discussed a book published by ICC Publishing House, which describes the history of the Carpathians from prehistory to the present day. The author of the publication, Prof. Maciej Janowski, and Prof. Jacek Purchla took part in the discussion on the character and specificity of this region.

Experts discussed at the ICC what the concept of “mountainousness” is — how it has changed and shaped over the years and how it has influenced and continues to influence the identity of the region. Prof. Maciej Janowski and Prof. Jacek Purchla considered the difference between writing the history of the Carpathians and writing the history of a nation or state. The author of the book also talked about the process of its creation.

Prof. Maciej Janowski pointed out that in the case of such a diverse and multicultural region as the Carpathians, it is impossible to speak of a single center that would serve as an observation point for the discussions. He emphasized that the heart of the Carpathians is everywhere, but when writing a book about this specific, multicultural territory, he nevertheless sought common features. Professor Jacek Purchla also asked the author about the concept of “mountainousness.” As Prof. Janowski emphasized, in this unique area, stretched between cultures and empires, it has become a cultural category, a way of life and thinking, shaped by nature, beliefs, and art.

We invite you to watch the video recording of the meeting and to familiarize yourself with the publication “Carpathia” at the MCK bookstore.

The Romanian Cultural Institute in Warsaw was a partner of the event.