Żywiec

Located in southern Poland in the Silesian Voivodeship, Żywiec is a city with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Its origins trace back to the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries, with the first records of the settlement appearing in 1308. The city flourished significantly under the ownership of the Komorowski family (1467–1624) and later the Habsburgs (1838–1944), who developed the region, transforming Żywiec into a center of the brewing industry—a hallmark that remains to this day. Żywiec is also home to numerous architectural landmarks, including the Old and New Castles, the neoclassical Co-Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and an 18th-century bell tower. The castle park features many natural monuments. The city is also known for its folk traditions, which come to life in annual festivals such as the "Beskid Culture Week" and "Żywieckie Gody." Several associations, including the Municipal Cultural Center, work to promote regional traditions and artistic activities. Local legends, such as the tale of the goddess Żywia, add to the city’s charm. Żywiec is also a sports hub, known for pétanque and its football club. A particularly interesting aspect of the city is its diverse ethnic structure, predominantly Polish but with noticeable Ukrainian and Silesian influences. Although once known for recording the lowest temperatures in Poland, Żywiec now attracts tourists with its picturesque landscapes and natural attractions, including Lake Żywiec and the nearby mountains. The city exemplifies a harmonious blend of history, culture, and nature.