Poland

In Poland, an ordinary earthen floor could be transformed with patterns of white sand for a celebration.

Women in Kuyavia sprinkled fine, dry sand by hand over dark floors, courtyards and paths, building up spirals, flowers, geometric forms and trees of life. The sand was carefully dried and sieved, and could be whitened with lime to stand out more clearly against the dark ground.

The patterns were made for Easter, festivals and important visits. A young woman might also decorate the path to her home when a potential suitor was expected.

Over time, the patterns were worn away by feet. As wooden floors became common, the tradition nearly disappeared — but in Kuyavia it lives on today, kept up by families and cultural institutions.