Bartoszyce County

Bartoszyce County, located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, was reestablished in 1999, after having been previously dissolved in 1975. Its seat is the town of Bartoszyce, which is also one of the two towns in the county (the other being Górowo Iławeckie). The county borders the Kaliningrad Oblast in Russia to the north, as well as the counties of Kętrzyn, Olsztyn, Lidzbark, and Braniewo. Within the county, there is a border crossing with the Russian Federation in Bezledy, which holds both economic and tourist significance. The county’s architecture is diverse and reflects its rich history. Bartoszyce, known for its Gothic Teutonic castle, offers numerous historical monuments related to the region’s past, including churches from various eras. Górowo Iławeckie, in turn, also features distinctive buildings that mirror the historical transformations the area has undergone. From a cultural perspective, Bartoszyce County is a place where local and ethnic traditions play a significant role. The inhabitants preserve both Polish customs and those associated with local ethnic groups, which is evident in organized festivals, harvest celebrations, and folk events. The region hosts various cultural events that promote both local artistic talents and cultural heritage. The history of Bartoszyce County dates back to the post-war years. It was established in 1946 from the territories of the dissolved Prussian Iławka County, and after administrative changes in the following years, the county underwent numerous modifications. In 1961, the town of Górowo Iławeckie and other communes were incorporated into the county, but its existence ended in 1975. After years of administrative dissolution, the county was restored in 1999, contributing to the renewal of local identity. An interesting fact is that over the years, the population of the county has undergone significant changes. In 1946, 38,700 people lived here, and by 1999, this number had increased to 64,933, indicating the dynamic development of the region. Despite a previous decline in the number of inhabitants, Bartoszyce County remains a place with a fascinating history, rich culture, and diverse architectural attractions that attract both residents and tourists.