Barciany

Barciany Municipality, located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship within Kętrzyn County, boasts a rich history and a diverse demographic structure. Its administrative seat is the town of Barciany, which is home to the largest portion of the municipality's population. In 2011, the population was 6,782, but by 2019 it had decreased to 6,109. The municipality covers an area of 293.62 km², dominated by agricultural land (82%) and forests (8%), and constitutes 24.21% of the county's total area. The region is home to numerous valuable natural sites, including the Oświn Lake Protected Landscape Area and the Warmia Refuge, highlighting the importance of local biodiversity. Additionally, there are several natural monuments within the municipality. Religious life is also vibrant, with Roman Catholic parishes in Barciany, Drogosze, Mołtajny, Momajny, and Winda, a Greek Catholic parish in Asuny, and an Evangelical-Augsburg chapel. Since 1990, seven mayors have governed the municipality, with Marta Kamińska currently holding the position. Barciany Municipality offers extensive educational infrastructure, including a Municipal Cultural Center and a Municipal Library, which foster the cultural development of its residents. The area also includes village administrative units (sołectwas), where local community life thrives. The municipality borders Russia (Kaliningrad Oblast), and the Korsze–Zheleznodorozhny railway line runs through its territory, facilitating transportation. An interesting fact is the diversity of settlements, ranging from larger ones like Barciany and Mołtajny to smaller villages, reflecting the rich social and cultural fabric of the region.