Żegocina

Żegocina is a picturesque village located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, in Bochnia County, serving as the seat of the Żegocina municipality. The village is situated along provincial road no. 965, between Bochnia and Limanowa, at the junction of the Beskid Wyspowy range and the Wiśnickie Foothills. It captivates with its mountainous landscape, valleys, and steep slopes, featuring peaks such as Kamionna (801 m above sea level) and Łopusza Zachodnia (661 m above sea level). The village is home to several historical monuments, including the neo-Gothic parish church of St. Nicholas the Bishop from 1895 and two World War I military cemeteries, which bear witness to the tragic events in the region. The history of Żegocina dates back to the times of Bolesław Krzywousty, when the settlement was founded by the knight Żegota. Over the centuries, it changed hands among various owners, including the Otfinowski and Lubomirski families. At the beginning of the 20th century, Żegocina became a summer resort for many Jewish families, significantly influencing its development. During World War II, the residents actively resisted the German occupation through their involvement in the Peasant Battalions and the Home Army. After the war, the village underwent electrification and infrastructure development, becoming financially self-sufficient. Żegocina has intensively developed agritourism and crafts, which, combined with its natural attractions and good accommodation base, attracts tourists. The region also features a disused quarry, a campsite, and the "Zuber" mineral water spring. Żegocina offers hiking trails leading to the peaks of Łopusza and Kamionna, making it an attractive destination for hiking enthusiasts. Cooperation with the Hungarian municipality of Jásaroksállász and the implementation of development programs have contributed to the socio-economic growth of the village. Despite tragedies, such as the devastating flood in 1997, the residents demonstrated determination in rebuilding. Żegocina is an example of a village that combines rich history and tradition with a modern approach to local development.