Biebrza National Park

The Biebrza National Park, established in 1993, is the largest national park in Poland, covering an area of 592.23 km² in the Biebrza Valley in the Podlaskie Voivodeship. It encompasses the Biebrza River valley, protecting rich wetland ecosystems, peatlands, and diverse forest communities. The history of conservation in this area dates back to the interwar period when the Czerwone Bagno and Grzędy nature reserves were created. The park was designated as a Ramsar protected site in 1995 and is an important area for many bird species, forming part of an Important Bird Area (IBA). In 2020, a tragic fire burned approximately 9.5% of the park's area, negatively impacting local fauna and flora. The park's 30th anniversary in 2023 was an opportunity to promote its rich history and natural beauty. Biebrza National Park is home to 49 species of mammals, 271 species of birds, 36 species of fish, and many rare plants, including orchids and sundews. Diverse tourist trails, including educational paths, river kayaking on the Biebrza, and cycling routes, attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is also worth visiting the Osowiec Fortress and Goniądz, which hold historical significance. The park's vegetation is characterized by immense diversity, including unique moss species, as well as populations of elk, which are its symbol. An interesting fact is that the Biebrza Valley is one of the most important sanctuaries for wading birds in Central Europe, with many nesting and migratory species. The park combines natural values with history, culture, and architecture, offering visitors unforgettable experiences and opportunities to explore nature.