Krynica was first recorded in official documents in 1547 and was granted town rights in 1889. In the 17th century, mineral waters were discovered in the area. By the end of the 19th century, the town had acquired a considerable reputation for its picturesque location and its health resort facilities. It was frequented by Polish elites and intellectuals. Among notable visitors were
Jan Matejko,
Artur Grottger,
Henryk Sienkiewicz and
Józef Ignacy Kraszewski. In the interbellum period the town attracted such individuals as
Ludwik Solski,
Helena Modjeska,
Władysław Reymont,
Julian Tuwim,
K.I. Gałczyński and
Jan Kiepura. A
gondola lift built in 1997 on Mount Jaworzyna Krynicka overlooking Krynica, and subsequent investment in modern skiing facilities (apart from the
former track of bobsleigh) made Krynica one of the most important ski resorts in Poland. Nearby
Beskid Sądecki mountains are also a perfect setting for recreational cross-country skiing in winter and hiking as well as mountain-biking in summer. The winter sport of
bandy returned to Poland in the 2010s, after many decades. When the country made their first international appearance in 2006 at the World Championships for boys U15 in
Edsbyn, Krynica-Zdrój contributed with most players. ==Geography==