Polityczne meandry łemkowskich cerkwi

The Lemko churches preserved to present times are one of the most characteristic elements of the cultural landscape of the northern Carpathians. They are also clear, visual evidence of the multinational and multi-confessional history of the Beskidy mountains. Both – dramatic and complicated history and contemporary situation of the Lemko minority, perfectly presents direct impact of political events on the history of the Lemkos and their spiritual and material culture. The main purpose of the article is to show, on the example of the Lemko region, the overriding influence of political conditions on the denominational structure. Transformations and political decisions made without the participation of the most interested, in this case the Lemkos, effectively determined the private sphere of life like a religious faith. It took place both in the twentieth century and also few hundred years earlier. It also takes place today.