Szafarnia is the place where the young Chopin spent his holidays twice (in 1824 and 1825), staying with his school friend Dominik Dziewanowski. He visited the area, became acquainted with the folklore, listened to folk songs and the music of country musicians, and took part in local ceremonies. He described his holiday adventures in a journal addressed to his parents, entitled 'Kurier Szafarski', in which he signed his name, Pichon, as an anagram of his own. Under the influence of his new experiences, Frédéric changed his perception of rhythm in music. He began composing his first mazurkas, inspired by Polish folk dances. Leaving his native country in 1830, Chopin took with him memories of native folklore, which in the future became a source of musical masterpieces.
Today, Szafarnia resounds with Chopin's music. There is the Chopin Centre with a concert hall and a small museum dedicated to the outstanding composer. Numerous concerts and piano competitions attract music lovers from all over the world. The 19th century eclectic palace is surrounded by a picturesque park with old trees, rich vegetation and a charming piano-shaped pond.
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