Remember Piast the Wheelwright? His legend echoes through Poland’s history. Piast Kołodziej wasn’t just any wheelwright. He was the ancestor of Polish kings.
Legend says Piast lived long ago. It was around the 9th century. He resided in a village near Kruszwica. Piast crafted wooden carts and wheels. Neighbors admired him. He was known as a wise and honest man.
One day Piast and his wife Rzepicha prepared a feast. It was for their son Siemowit’s seventh birthday. This was an important pagan rite. Unexpectedly two strangers arrived. Piast and Rzepicha welcomed them. They invited the travelers to join the celebration.
During the feast Rzepicha presented her son. Siemowit knelt before Piast. Piast cut a lock of his hair. He then asked the mysterious guests for a favor. He requested them to name his son. The travelers approached Siemowit. Each cut a lock of his hair. One traveler declared “I name you Siemowit.” He added that this name would bring fame and fortune.
The feast continued and a miracle happened. Food and drink never ran out. Piast was amazed. He realized the travelers were responsible. They were no ordinary guests.
Years passed. Siemowit grew into a wise and just man. The people chose him as their prince. He ruled from the castle in Kruszwica. Siemowit started the Piast dynasty. This dynasty produced the first Polish kings. The travelers’ prophecy came true.
Piast’s story highlights hospitality. His kindness led to his family’s rise. He replaced the cruel Prince Popiel. Piast became a symbol. He stood for hard work and integrity. The legend of Piast the Wheelwright became popular.
Gallus Anonymus wrote about Piast in his chronicle. He described Piast as a good-hearted man. He welcomed divine messengers. This contrasted with Popiel who drove them away. The messengers blessed Piast. They made his cellar overflow. His son Siemowit became prince.
Jan Długosz added details. He said Piast moved the capital to Gniezno. He hung peasant sandals in the palace. This symbolized his humble origins. Marcin Bielski identified Piast as a wheelwright.
Historians see Piast’s story as legitimizing the Piast dynasty. He represented Polish values. In times of royal elections people called for a “Piast king”. They wanted a Polish leader like the legendary founder.
Piast’s image evolved over time. He became a symbol of the virtuous peasant. The Polish People’s Party adopted him as their patron. Ironically Piast remained unknown in folk culture for a long time.
In the 19th century artists and writers found inspiration in Piast. Today Piast the Wheelwright remains a tourist attraction. His name graces inns and taverns. The legend of Piast Kołodziej is still told today.