Barczewo

Barczewo, formerly known as Wartembork, is a town located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, on the Warmian Pisa River. It plays a significant role as a center for services and industry. Its history dates back to 1325, when it was established in the Prussian region of Galindia. The town received its municipal rights in 1364, and a notable event in its history was the visit of Nicolaus Copernicus in 1538. Barczewo is home to numerous historical monuments, including the Gothic St. Anne's Church, built in 1386, and the Church of St. Andrew the Apostle, which houses the cenotaph of Cardinal Andrzej Batory. The town also features a neo-Gothic town hall from the 19th century, a synagogue—the last remaining one in Warmia—and remnants of medieval town walls. Culture in Barczewo thrives thanks to the Center for Culture and Promotion of the Municipality, which organizes various events, including the International Feliks Nowowiejski Choral Festival, honoring the local composer. Numerous associations are active in Barczewo, and various cultural events take place, such as the Days of Barczewo and municipal harvest festivals. The town is situated in a picturesque young glacial landscape, which promotes tourism, and the surrounding area offers numerous cycling trails and recreational opportunities by the lakes. An interesting fact is that Barczewo lies on the Route of St. James, a pilgrimage trail to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Recently, the town authorities have invested in the revitalization of the Old Town, uncovering historic burgher walls, which attracts tourists and enhances Barczewo's significance as an attractive tourist destination in the region.