Although geographically distant, Poland and the countries of the Western Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia) have enjoyed a long history of relations and exchange of people and ideas. This process was never just one-way. It always took place in both directions, although the level of intensity varied during different historical epochs. A quick glance at the trade networks and communication routes of Europe in any given historical period would reveal direct links between Poland and the Western Balkans. The list of those who travelled and traded, fought and made peace, saved life as doctors, helped build infrastructure as engineers and studied and taught in the region would be a long one. This is especially true regarding those who left a distinctive mark in the fields of arts, sciences and culture. The aim of our album „Polish Legacy. Balkan Heritage. Polish contribution to culture, art and science of the Western Balkans” is to describe the lives and deeds of these people and to place their activities in a larger and contemporary context. As a result, it is hoped that by rediscovering these stories that they may not be lost to history. The work focuses on Poles or people born in what used to be Poland at the given time. These are people who significantly contributed to the development of the arts, science and culture of the Albanians, Bosniaks, Croats, Macedonians, Montenegrins and Serbs.
