Świętajno

Świętajno is a rural commune in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, located in the Szczytno County, with its seat in the village of Świętajno. Between 1975 and 1998, the commune belonged to the Olsztyn Voivodeship. The commune covers an area of 279.78 km², of which 27% is agricultural land and 63% is forest land. It is inhabited by 5,774 people (data as of the end of 2019). The demographic structure shows an age diversity among the residents, as illustrated by the 2014 population pyramid. The commune includes village districts such as Biały Grunt, Chochół, Jerutki, and Spychowo, as well as a number of smaller localities, including Bystrz and Kobiel. It borders the communes of Dźwierzuty, Piecki, Rozogi, Ruciane-Nida, and Szczytno. Świętajno is of tourist importance due to its rich nature, including the Pisz Forest and numerous lakes. The kayaking trail along the Krutynia River runs through the area, and localities such as Jerutki, Koczek, and Piasutno feature holiday resorts and summer houses. Notable architectural heritage includes the historic half-timbered church in Jerutki, built in 1734. The commune also offers ecological educational trails and numerous cycling routes. The region is distinguished by interesting buildings from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries and Evangelical cemeteries, reflecting its rich history. The northeastern part of the commune lies within the borders of the Masurian Landscape Park and is covered by the Natura 2000 program, contributing to the protection of valuable ecosystems.