Baranów Sandomierski

Baranów Sandomierski is a town in Poland, located in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship, on the banks of the Vistula and Babulówka rivers. Its history dates back to 1135, and it was granted town rights by Casimir III the Great in 1354. In the 16th century, the town flourished thanks to trade, and at the end of that century, a late Renaissance castle known as the "Little Wawel," designed by Santi Gucci, was built. The castle is open to visitors and is surrounded by beautiful gardens in English, Italian, and French styles. Also worth noting is the late Renaissance Church of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist, originally Calvinist, which preserves many religious art treasures, including polychromes and sculptures. Culturally, Baranów Sandomierski is known for the regional influences of the Lasowiacy people and its folkloric activities, including an annual folklore festival. In 2021, the Museum of Polish Radio Theatre was opened, enriching the town's cultural offerings. Historically, the town has experienced many upheavals, including periods of prosperity and destruction. Its population, including the Jewish community, played a role in Poland's history, including during World War II, when a ghetto was established for Jews. An interesting fact is that Baranów Sandomierski was one of the main centers of Calvinism in Lesser Poland, which influenced its social and cultural development. Over the centuries, the town underwent various administrative changes, being part of different provinces and kingdoms, and today it serves as the seat of the municipality. Baranów also boasts beautiful natural landscapes, including the embanked Vistula River and local ponds. Despite difficult historical periods, the town has preserved its unique character and remains an important location in the region.