Żagań-Tomaszowo Airport

Żagań-Tomaszowo Airport, located in the Lubusz Voivodeship, is a decommissioned former Soviet military airfield with a rich history. It was originally established as a glider airfield during the German era and was converted into a military airfield in 1936. During World War II, it served as a base for preparing combat aircraft, and after the war, until 1992, it was used by Soviet forces as a first-strike unit. The 42nd Tannenberg Bomber Aviation Regiment was stationed there. Designed to be self-sufficient, the airfield consisted of two concrete runways, shelter hangars, various auxiliary buildings, and a residential estate. The architecture of the complex, including residential blocks, hangars, and staff buildings, reflects the military construction style of that period, covering an area of 200 hectares as part of a larger 935-hectare complex. Today, although most of the facility is in a state of decay, some hangars have been repurposed by companies, and parts of the runways are used by the Regional Road Traffic Center (WORD) in Zielona Góra. Due to its attractive location, nearby residential buildings quickly found new occupants. The airfield has also become a venue for various events, such as car meets and rallies, introducing elements of culture and sports activities to this historic site. Interestingly, paintball and airsoft events are also organized on the premises, showcasing its versatility and potential for modern use. Despite the passage of time and changing realities, Żagań-Tomaszowo remains an interesting point on the regional map, combining military history, architecture, and cultural activities.