Białowieża

Białowieża, a village in the Podlaskie Voivodeship situated in a clearing within the Białowieża Forest, is renowned not only for its rich history but also as the seat of the Białowieża National Park and a key destination for tourism. The settlement dates back to the Neolithic era, with the first written records of Białowieża originating from the 17th century, when it served as an important hunting ground for Polish kings and Lithuanian dukes. It also boasts architectural treasures, including significant landmarks such as the Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas from 1895, a 19th-century palace park, and the remains of a royal manor. In 1889, Tsar Alexander III commissioned the construction of a hunting palace, which served as a summer residence and remains a symbol of the monarchy's former grandeur to this day. Białowieża was also a site of intense activity during World War II, with tragic consequences for the local population. Today, it attracts tourists with its unique flora and fauna, including European bison, as well as numerous hiking and cycling trails. It is also worth mentioning that Białowieża is home to the Forest Education Center, and the area is protected by UNESCO as part of the world's natural heritage. The tourism infrastructure is well-developed, offering hotels, guesthouses, and agritourism options for visitors. Białowieża continues to captivate with its history, natural wonders, and the opportunity to experience the unique ecosystem of the Białowieża Forest up close.